Although it is rare for a woman to have menopause before age 40, it can happen anytime between the ages of 30 and the mid-50s, and even later. Often, the onset of menopause is earlier for smokers than for nonsmokers. Only a few generations ago, few women lived beyond menopause.
Itching can be caused by many conditions. A common cause of itch is psychological, that is, due to stress, anxiety, etc. Stress also can aggravate itch from other causes. Dry skin (xerosis) is another frequent cause of itch. Many people also report sunburn itch following prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun.
Wool, chemicals, soaps and other substances can irritate the skin and cause itching. Sometimes the substance, such as poison ivy or cosmetics, causes an allergic reaction. Food allergies also may cause skin to itch. Drugs. Reactions to drugs, such as antibiotics, antifungal drugs or narcotic pain medications, can cause widespread rashes and itching. Pregnancy. During pregnancy, some women experience itchy skin, especially on the abdomen and thighs.