Menopause

Question 1

What are the absolute contraindications to HRT?

Answer 1

Unexplained vaginal bleeding
Acute liver disease
Active thromboembolic disease
Known or suspected breast cancer
Pregnancy

Question 2

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Answer 2

Vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes = reddening of head, neck, chest, and feelings of heat/perspiration)
Vaginal atrophy (thinning and inflammation) leading to vaginal bleeding and dyspareunia
Psychophysiological ex. depression, irritability, anxiety, decreased memory

Question 3

What is the definition of menopause?

Answer 3

Menopause: 12 months of amenorrhea after final menstrual period (reflects ovarian follicle depletion and loss of ovarian estrogen production). The median age of menopause is 50-52.