Menopause

Question 1

What does the term climacteric mean?

Answer 1

It describes the period when ovarian function declines and menopausal symptoms appear.

Question 2

What does post menopause mean?

Answer 2

It refers to the women’s life after menopause

Question 3

Name 4 significant peri-menopausal hormonal changes?

Answer 3

• Gradual rise in FSH
• Fluctuations in estradiol and progesterone
• Decreased ovarian inhibin B from ovarian granulosa cells
• No substantial changes in androgen levels
• Sex steroids fluctuate markedly on a daily basis.

Question 4

When would it be vital to check the hormone levels in relation to perimenopause?

Answer 4

• It is important to check if it looks like it is going to be an early menopause
• In perimenopausal women the level is greater than 20 u/L
• In post menopausal women the level is greater than 40 u/L

Question 5

What are the factors which determine menopausal age?

Answer 5

Age of menarche, genetic factors, Cigarette smoking, Menopause is 1 - 2 years earlier in smokers compared to non smokers, surgical history: hysterectomy may reduce the age of menopause

Question 6

What is the aetiology of menopause?

Answer 6

Ovarian primordial follicle stores are exhausted by atresia and ovulation. Ovarian follicles decrease with age with an accelerated rate of loss from 37 years.