Are Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Disease at Risk for Early Menopause?

Chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease, negatively affect patients’ physical and psychological health. In fact, these diseases have been associated with gynecological complications, including menstrual and pelvic abnormalities, which can further negatively impact quality of life. Now, there are new concerns that these diseases may lead to premature ovarian failure and early menopause.

We invited lead researcher Dr Janet McLaren to discuss the results of this new study, which was presented at the 67th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Dr McLaren is an assistant professor in the division of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. 

Are Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Disease at Risk for Early Menopause?

Reference:
McLaren JF, Haynes K, Barnhart KT, et al. Early menopause in women with chronic inflammatory disease: a population-based cohort study. Presented at the 67th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Oct. 17, 2011; Orlando.