Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. While it is often associated with hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, the science behind menopause reveals complex hormonal changes that impact the entire body. In this blog, we will explore the physiological and biological mechanisms driving menopause and what these changes mean for women’s health.
What Is Menopause?
In the UK, menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being 51. Menopause is defined by the cessation of menstruation, which happens because the ovaries stop producing eggs and the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts. The transition to menopause begins with perimenopause, which can last several months to several years. During this phase, the body experiences fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone, the two primary hormones involved in the reproductive cycle.
The Role of Hormones in Menopause
The most significant hormonal change during menopause is the decline of oestrogen. This hormone, produced by the ovaries, regulates the menstrual cycle, maintains bone density, and influences mood and cognitive function. As a woman approaches menopause, her body produces less oestrogen, leading to the classic symptoms associated with menopause, such as irregular periods, hot flushes, and vaginal dryness.
The most significant hormonal change during menopause is the decline of oestrogen. This hormone, produced by the ovaries, regulates the menstrual cycle, maintains bone density, and influences mood and cognitive function. As a woman approaches menopause, her body produces less oestrogen, leading to the classic symptoms associated with menopause, such as irregular periods, hot flushes, and vaginal dryness.
Additionally, the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), which regulate the reproductive system, increase as the ovaries stop functioning normally. These hormonal shifts signal to the body that it no longer needs to maintain the reproductive cycle.
How Hormonal Changes Affect the Body
The reduction in oestrogen levels affects various systems throughout the body. One of the most significant effects is on bone density. Lower oestrogen levels can result in an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become fragile and more likely to break. Oestrogen also helps regulate cholesterol, and as its levels drop, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) may increase, while HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) may decrease, which could elevate the risk of heart disease.
Hormonal changes also affect cognitive function and mood. Some women report experiencing memory issues or difficulty concentrating during menopause, which researchers link to lower oestrogen levels. Oestrogen is believed to influence neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate mood. As a result, mood swings, anxiety, or even depression can become more prevalent during this time.
Menopause is not a one-off event but a gradual process. Perimenopause, the transition phase, involves fluctuating hormones that can cause symptoms like irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, and disturbed sleep. Once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period, she is considered to have reached menopause. Post-menopause, the body adjusts to lower levels of oestrogen and progesterone, although some symptoms may persist. The risk of conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease also increases.