Menopause Hormone Levels

For some women, menopause is the point of their lives when they can no longer conceive and bodily changes start to occur. Menopause is brought about by the decrease in the production of the two most essential female reproductive hormones. The condition of menopause itself is non-preventable, however hormone replacement therapy may be given to reduce the occurrence symptoms associated with menopause.

Definition

• Menopausal period is the time when a woman reaches the age where she ceases to menstruate as her ovaries inadequately produce hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone that regulate her menstrual cycle at a lesser rate. Menopausal period usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 50. A woman is considered menopausal if she hasn't had menstruated for a period of one year.

Hormones

• Estrogen plays a vital role in the reproductive processes of a woman. It is responsible for the regulation of the menstrual cycle and prepares the woman's uterus for pregnancy by thickening the endometrial lining of the womb. Estrogen level in a woman's body is decreased during menopause. Progesterone also regulates menstrual cycle and prepares the woman's body for pregnancy and maintains pregnancy. During the menopausal stage, both estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate. In the true menopausal period, both hormone levels are constantly low. However, during the perimenopausal period, some women may experience exacerbation of menstrual symptoms brought about by high levels of estrogen.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes or a sudden feeling of heat on the upper part of the body particularly on the neck, face and chest, and the skin appears reddened. There is also sweating and an increase in heart rate. Irregular menstruation is brought about the changes in the menstrual pattern secondary to fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone. Infertility, brought about by decreased levels of estrogen and dryness in the vaginal area brought about by the decrease in lubrication due to lack of estrogen. The dryness maybe accompanied by itching and discomfort and causes painful intercourse. Insomnia is also common because of night sweats and anxiety. Other symptoms include urinary tract infection, decrease in breast size, forgetfulness, mood swings and depression.

Treatment

• The changes that occur in menopause are relieved by giving the menopausal woman hormone replacements. Estrogen replacement yherapy and/or hormonal replacement therapy offer a combination of estrogen and progesterone that are intended to replace the hormones no longer made by the body.

Coping

• By exercising regularly, a woman can decrease the likelihood of irritability and depression, as well as decrease the chances of osteoporosis brought about by decreased levels of estrogen. A well-toned muscle also increases energy levels. A diet that is high in calcium and complex carbohydrates as well as plenty of fluids can decrease the chances of urinary tract infections during menopause.