23- Menopause

Question 1

What is menopause?

Answer 1

Permanent cessation of menses
Average in the US is around 51.4 years
Most women achieve it between 44-55 years
Premature ovarian failure is when menopause occurs before the age of 40

Question 2

What factors determine the age of menopause?

Answer 2

Genetics
Not related to contraception use or socio economic status
Not related to age or ethnicity
Tobacco use

Question 3

What i perimenopausal transition?

Answer 3

Increase in the irregularity of menstrual cycles often noticing a progressively increasing length between periods and skipping periods
Average length of time is about 5 years
Ends with the start of menopause

Question 4

What is the biochemical status behind perimenopausal transition?

Answer 4

Follicular depletion and declining fertility begin on average at the age of 37-38, even though periods are regular
Decrease numbers of follicles causes an increase in the level of FSH
Estrogen levels are likely stable due to increased stimulation by FSH

Question 5

How is hormonal production after menopause?

Answer 5

FSH and LH surge due to loss of negative inhibition, then plateau and decrease
Ovary are still functional
Hormones secreted are testosterone and androstenedione

Question 6

What are some of the effects of menopause on the body?

Answer 6

Vasomotor symptom- flushing, hot, 1-2 years in length
Vaginal dryness
Atrophic effects
Psychophysiological effects-not associated with menopause, vulnerable women may be at an increased risk