3.1 lecture: endocrinology, menopause Flashcards
what are the 3 stages of end of reproductive life in females?
pre-menopause
menopause
post menopause
what are the 7 symptoms of menopause?
itchy twitchy sweaty sleepy moody bloated forgetful
when does pre-menopause typically occur from?
age circa 40 years
what happens to menstrual cycle during pre-menopause?
follicular phase shortens
what happens to ovulation during pre-menopause? effects?
ovulation early / absent:
less oestrogen secreted
LH + FSH levels rise, FSH more (less inhibin)
what happens to the feedback loop during pre-menopause?
reduced feedback = reduced fertility (absent ovulation)
reduced feedback on hypothalamus, increase GnRH, increase LH + FSH, removes oestrogen break
what happens during menopause?
cessation of menstrual cycles
when does menopause occur?
average age 49-50 (but varies)
what happens to the hormones during menopause? why?
no more follicles to develop
oestrogen levels fall dramatically
FSH + LH rise (FSH more - no inhibin)
(gradual decline in follicle numbers increases dramatically (rapid decline))
what are the effects of menopause?
vascular changes ‘hot flushes’
affect about 80% females
transient rises in skin temperature + flushing
what are the symptoms of menopause relieved by?
oestrogen treatment
which tissues are sensitive to oestrogen?
uterus cervix vaginal rugae breast tissue skin bladder (pelvic muscles)
what are the effects of menopause (low oestrogen) on uterus?
regression of endometrium (lining)
shrinkage of myometrium (muscle surrounding endometrium)
what are the effects of menopause (low oestrogen) on cervix and vagina?
thinning of cervix
vaginal rugae lost (thinner + drier)
what are the effects of menopause (low oestrogen) on breast tissue?
involution of some breast tissue
