Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, marked by the end of menstruation and a decrease in sex hormones: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormonal changes can lead to physical and emotional symptoms that affect quality of life. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) helps restore hormonal balance to relieve symptoms and prevent complications such as osteoporosis, vaginal atrophy, and low libido.
What are the most common menopause symptoms?
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Sleep disturbances
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Fatigue, low libido
- Weight gain, joint pain
What are the principal causes of menopause?
Key factors include:
- Age (typically 45–55 years)
- Genetics
- Smoking
- Certain illnesses or treatments (e.g., cancer therapy)
How is menopause diagnosed?
- Medical history and symptom review
- Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) questionnaire
- Blood tests: FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, free testosterone, DHEA-S, AMH
What is the importance of progesterone in women?
It is the key hormone of the menstrual cycle, which stabilizes mood and promotes sleep.
Symptoms related to deficiency:- Irritability
- Pain
- Mood swings
- Spotting and irregular cycles
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety
- Breast tenderness
What is the importance of estradiol in women?
It is the key hormone for maintaining the health of bones, skin, heart, and brain. It also influences libido and mood.
Symptoms related to deficiency:- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased libido
- Chronic fatigue
- Memory and concentration problems
- Osteoporosis
- Joint pain
- Depression or irritability
- Dry skin and brittle hair
What is the importance of testosterone in women?
This male sex hormone is also present in women and influences muscle mass, libido, energy, and motivation.
Symptoms related to deficiency:- Persistent fatigue
- Decreased libido
- Weight gain (especially abdominal)
- Loss of muscle mass
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood swings or depression
- Reduced concentration and motivation
What are the treatment options?
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): combined or single
- Forms: tablets, patches, gels, creams
- Local estrogen creams for vaginal dryness
- Personalized treatment, minimal effective dose
- Regular monitoring: blood pressure, weight, blood tests & mammogram
- Annual reassessment: adjust doses based on symptoms and monitor side effects