LC 3.8 Menopause 1 Flashcards
What is peri-menopause?
The time surrounding the last menstrual period: defined as whenever periods become irregular up until 1 year after the last menstrual period (if under the age of 50)
What is the average age of menopause in the UK?
51 years
How is menopause defined?
Under age of 50: two years since last period
Over age of 50: one year since last period
What iatrogenic causes of menopause are there?
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
What lab test is hindered by contraceptive hormones? How long must someone wait until finishing a LARC (long-acting reversible contraception) before this becomes reliable?
FSH samples
Must wait for one year before FSH samples can be used as a diagnostic tool
Who should receive lab tests for menopause diagnosis?
What changes in cycle may occur in the peri-menopausal state?
More or less frequent bleeding
Sometimes heavier bleeding
What hormonal changes occur after menopause and why?
- Decrease in oestrogen and progesterone because ovulation stops
- This causes a rise in FSH levels due to the loss of negative feedback
What types of symptoms can menopause cause? What causes these?
• Vasomotor symptoms • Psychological symptoms • Urogenital symptoms • Musculoskeletal symptoms Loss of oestrogen causes these
What are the vasomotor symptoms of menopause?
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Palpitations
- Headaches
What are the psychological effects of menopause?
- Depression and anxiety
- Forgetfulness
- Insomnia and lethargy
- Loss of libido
What are the urogenital symptoms of menopause?
- Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
- Non-specific infections
- Loss of vaginal muscle tone
- Dysuria and increased frequency of micturition
What are the musculoskeletal symptoms of menopause?
• Osteopenia (mild osteoporosis) then osteoporosis
What are the risk factors of osteoporosis?
- Family history
- Early menopause or hysterectomy
- Corticosteroid use
- Slight build
- Smoking/alcohol
What is premature menopause/?
Menopause before 40 years old
