how common is it?

Hi I was wondering how common it is to have the menopause at a young age? and what's the youngest? I'm 27 and haven't had a period for 2-3 years... not sure why. And I have alot of issues about 'down there' so I won't go to the doctor about it.

You're going to continue to have problems if you don't see your doctor. Period (or no period).

I can't tell you what your problem is because I am not a doctor and neither are you. You can't diagnose yourself as menopause because you may in fact have an infection or a serious issue that you do not know about because of your insecurities. I have issues with people touching my lady parts too but I know that in order to be healthy I have to get over my fears and let the doctor touch me. And all she does is stick a finger or a speculum inside and checks, she's not massaging you or anything. I would strongly suggest seeing a doctor.

2-3 years at your age is a long time. I don't mean to offend, but are you really skinny? When I was younger and running, I basically had zero body fat and did not get my period; something about producing hormones needing some body fat. However, if I stopped running for a couple of months, I would get my periods. I'd start running again, and the periods stopped.

Anyway, you should go see a doctor. The exam is over with quickly.

Yeah, women need some body fat to sustain menstruation - it is a built-in mechanism that prevents pregnancies in women who do not have sufficient resources to nourish a fetus properly. Anorexia commonly results in the loss of a period. Being very athletic can be the culprit, too, as Emily explained.

Waelwulf: what is concerning that you would not see a doctor. It appears that you have an irrational fear of doctors. Plus, if you are sexually active, you should be having PAP smear done annually, at your age.

OMG, you need to see the doctor, sorry but please? That sounds awful, please do that!? Pretty please?

It could be a number of things. As before mentioned, if you are very low body weight you can miss your period. I've missed it here and there when under massive amounts of stress, but not like you've described.

I get the fear of going to the doctor. Especially when things like speculums and stirrups are involved. If nothing else you could call ahead and let them know that while you want to talk to a doctor about this concerns, but are refusing a pelvic exam. They may say they can't help you without the exam, but a good doctor would still talk to you about possible things that could be wrong or could do blood tests for hormone levels, etc., if they feel that would be appropriate. Just remember when you go into that office that you have the right to refuse care. If they insist you have that exam and you don't want to, let them know you have your rights and ethically they can not force you.

I would start with trying to find a good doctor who will respect your wishes. While it's true they may be unable to help you, they can still talk out your concerns and if you feel comfortable enough with them, perhaps you'll be able to drop your drawer and spread 'em. (I use humor and vulgarity to conquer my own fears of such things).

Also request a doctor of the gender you feel most comfortable with. Myself I've only had one man do a pelvic exam on me and regretted it. I insist on a woman and when I was offered up a man when my doc was unable to make it, I refused and rescheduled my appt. I know my sister feel uncomfortable with a woman doing the exam. To each his own, just know what would make you feel more comfortable and request that gender just in case you decide to go through with it.

Good luck, I hope it goes well for you.

Waelwulf-

You should see a gyn. If you do not want a pelvice exam, tell the, But they should take blood samples to see what your hormone levels are at. You DO NOT want to be in menopause at your age.

PLEASE, at least have the blood tests.

I personally, don't like wondering, and worrying, so going to the doctor's is just something I prefer to do, for myself.

I'm also, not a fan, of trying to self-diagnose myself, either. Amazing, how much is out there, I could have or not have.

2-3 years, is a long time without a period. Are you having other menopause symptoms, that leaves you believing, this is what it could be?

I'm in my late 30's and not even close, it would appear to menopause.

Hope you check back in, let us know, you are ok?

My friend had an issue similar, but not as long as 2-3 years. She had to go on birth control to regulate her cycle. If you have not already visited your OBGYN, you need to asap. This is definitely not normal.