The physiology of the menopause.
The decline and eventual cessation of estrogen production by the ovary at menopause are reflected physiologically in tissues with estrogen receptors. The rate of decline of hormones is quite variable and often relates to symptoms experienced. At menopause women still have one third of their life expectancy ahead of them. The physician must determine which symptoms are aging, physiologic changes resulting from estrogen deprivation and which may herald more serious pathology in need of diagnosis and treatment. The knowledgeable physician can give good explanation, which is sometimes as beneficial as medications. Hormone replacement therapy may improve physiologic function of some tissues and relieve symptoms. When hormones are given for clear indications in as safe a method as possible and with adequate monitoring, the woman will have her symptoms relieved and will be grateful for her sense of well-being and ability to enjoy life.
D000328:Adult; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D001940:Breast / Q000502:physiology; D002979:Climacteric / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008593:Menopause / Q000502:physiology*; D008594:Menopause, Premature / Q000502:physiology; D008598:Menstruation; D008875:Middle Aged; D010053:Ovary / Q000502:physiology; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D014553:Urinary Tract Physiological Phenomena; D014599:Uterus / Q000502:physiology; D014621:Vagina / Q000502:physiology; D014844:Vulva / Q000502:physiology