Question:

I am 34 years old. Recently, I went to the doctor to find out what happened to my regular period (the last time I had it was October, 2006). I was so shocked to find out I'm experiencing menopause. She also told me I will not able to have a child. I am not married, but very much want to have kids soon. What do think I should do?

Name withheld

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Answer:

There are a few questions to ask. First, are you experiencing perimenopause or menopause? If it’s the former, you may still be fertile, although you would want to speak with a physician about health risks – to you and a baby – before trying to conceive. Also, it never hurts to have a second opinion just to confirm the first physician’s diagnosis. Finally, you may want to consider adopting a child. The adoption procedure will be more complicated for you, being a single parent, but it may still be possible.