Menopause and HRT 1

Question 1

What is the definition of menopause?

Answer 1

• Final menstrual period (FMP) in a woman
  
  • due to loss of ovarian follicles/ovarian aging
• Diagnosis is made retrospectively after the women has experienced 12 months of amenorrhea
• Average age is 52, but can range from 40-58 in normal women (45-55 will hit most)
  
  • Before 40 suggests primary ovarian failure

Question 2

What is the definition of menopause transition?

Answer 2

• Time leading up to the final menstrual period (FMP)
  
  • waning ovarian function
  • menstrual cycle changes
  • fluctuations in hormone levels
• Average age of onset is 47.5 years
  
  • transition usually lasts about 4 years (2-10 is normal)

Question 3

What is the definition of perimenopause?

Answer 3

Menopause transition PLUS 12 months after the FMP