Impact of Selected Environmental Factors on the Timing of Natural Menopause Among Women: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Background: The onset of natural menopause is a multifactorial biological milestone influenced by a dynamic interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and socio-economic conditions. Accurately identifying the average age of menopause and its principal determinants is vital for anticipating age-related health risks and tailoring preventive strategies in women's healthcare. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the mean age at natural menopause and to investigate key environmental, biological, and lifestyle-related predictors influencing menopausal timing among women in Kerman province, Iran. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 involving 265 women aged 35 to 70 years residing in Kerman province. Data were collected through systematic random sampling using a comprehensive checklist that included demographic information, reproductive and obstetric history, lifestyle behaviors, and socio-economic status. Statistical analyses were performed to assess associations between menopausal age and potential predictive variables. Results: Participants’ mean age was 40.81 ± 9.09 years with a mean menopause age of 55.4 ± 7.61 years. Multivariable analysis revealed that longer menstrual bleeding (OR = 1.26, P = 0.032), higher maternal menopausal age [odds ratios (OR) = 1.48, P = 0.021], and older participant age (OR = 1.63, P < 0.001) significantly increased the likelihood of menopause, highlighting key predictors of delayed menopausal onset. Conclusions: This study identifies maternal menopausal age and menstrual traits as primary factors influencing menopause timing in southeastern Iranian women, with limited impact from socioeconomic and lifestyle factors. Regional differences stress the importance of localized research. Despite limitations, the findings call for larger, longitudinal studies to improve midlife women's health interventions.