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Marketing Menopause: Life's Change Becomes a Disease

TresSugar — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:30:19 -0800

When did menopause go from being a natural stage of life to a degenerative disease in need of a cure? Exactly when you'd expect. The transformation began in the '60s, peaked in the '90s, and continues today.

In 1966 Dr. Robert A. Wilson published Feminine Forever, which advocates the use of hormone drugs to prevent or cure menopause's side effects, which he labeled as "flabby," "shrunken," “dull-minded," and "desexed." “No woman can be sure of escaping the horror of this living decay,” he wrote. “There is no need for either valor or pretense. The need is for hormones.”

He might as well have been hired by a drug company to write this. His book put the phrase "hormone replacement therapy" into our vernacular and was a boon to drugs like Premarin, an estrogen replacement drug made of - brace yourself - pregnant mare's urine.

Yet while many ads focused directly internal benefits - ward off heart disease, Alzheimer's, and blindness(!) - others like the above zoned in on the external - maintain your beauty and sex drive, and your husband will still take you sailing! It doesn't help that even today there are celebrity endorsers with gimicky pitches like 63-year-old Suzanne Somers. She says hormones cure the "seven dwarfs of menopause: "Itchy. Bitchy. Sweaty. Sleepy. Bloated. Forgetful. All Dried Up." All dried up? It's like she gave up! I would have gone with "barren," but I guess that implies child-baring restoration.

So while many women have found hormone replacement therapy to mitigate hot flashes, insomnia, and other side effects of menopause, it seems high time we restore it as a change in life and abandon it as a disease. But then again, maybe I'll feel differently in 25 years.

Source and Source

Say What? Man With "Manopause" Blames Hormones

TresSugar — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:00:00 -0700

"So, with the help of Lupron, I spent a few months aboard the Good Ship Menopause with all the physical baggage that entails. It’s a trip that most men don’t expect to take . . .

And, guys, when your significant female other bursts into tears at the drop of a dinner plate or turns on you like a rabid pit bull - whether she’s pregnant, having her period or in the throes of menopause - believe her when she blames it on the hormones."

- Dana Jennings, in a New York Times piece about how being on hormone therapy for an aggressive case of prostate cancer gave him menopause-like symptoms including hot flashes, unexpected crying jags, intense food cravings, and weight gain.

Source

Jack in the Box Caters to the Menopausal Woman?

TresSugar — Fri, 15 May 2009 04:00:00 -0700

In addition to featuring one of the best junk food burgers out there - the Sourdough Jack (oh, man I just made myself hungry!) - I have to say Jack in the Box has some pretty great commercials. Take this one for their fruit smoothies, featuring a glassy-eyed menopausal woman who claims this beverage keeps her from going "street rat crazy." (A Jack in the Box fruit smoothie? Really?)

Oprah's Health Wake Up Call Came from Her Thyroid

FitSugar — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 12:30:00 -0700

Did you know that millions of women suffer from thyroid conditions? In the most recent issue of O Magazine, Oprah shares the tale of her wild health ride with thyroid issues.

She was plagued first by hyperthyroidism, which sped up her metabolism and prevented sleep. Oprah eventually "blew out" her thyroid and experienced classic symptoms of hypothyroidism: Her metabolism slowed and she felt sluggish and tired.

After discovering the cause of her health problems, Oprah decided this was a wake up call. She was determined, not only to get back in balance, but to highlight this particular women's health issue. According to The Wisdom of Menopause author Dr. Christiane Northrup, 25 percent of perimenopausal and menopausal women experience some kind of issue with their thyroid at some time, and most women don't know the cause of their deteriorating health.

I, for one, hope that with Oprah highlighting this issue that it receives more attention, both in research and educational outreach. You know Oprah knows how to stir things up! You can read much of the article, which explores the "break down to break through" moments of personal health, online at Oprah.com – hopefully it will help you learn to listen to your body.

Source

Hotflash the Menopause Game

FitSugar — Fri, 18 May 2007 17:15:00 -0700

When it comes to board games, Monopoly just doesn't always make the cut.

Enter Hotflash the Menopause game ($29.98), a hilarious way to have fun with a not so fun topic. There are spots you can land along the game called Raging Hormones where you’ll discover some little known facts about women, your body, perimenopause and lots of other stuff. When you land on a HotFlash!, you’ll have a chance to act a little goofy or ask your friends about some deep, dark secret like “Have you ever had a one-night stand?” Be sure to avoid PMS Purgatory, and be careful not to go down the Fallopian Tubes. They’ll take you backwards through Weepy Way, Lustless Lane, Bitchy Boulevard, Insomnia Aisle and The Forgetful Forest. Whether you're menopausal or not, you'll be sure to crack up playing this unique game.

Think Girl Talk (ah, remember that game) mixed with CandyLand but for grown-ups. Fun, eh? Buy it directly from HotflashGame.com.

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Menopause

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:34:57 -0700

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Highlights

Black Cohosh Doesn’t Help Hot Flashes

The herbal remedy black cohosh is no better than placebo for treating hot flashes and night sweats, according to a 2006 study in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Most complementary and alternative medicines are ineffective for relieving menopausal symptoms, according to a 2006 review in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Short-term use of HRT remains an option for recently menopausal women who have a low risk for stroke, according to a 2007 statement from the North American Menopause Society (NAMS). However, NAMS recommends that women who are at risk for heart disease or breast cancer should consider other approaches for managing hot flashes.
For women who want to discontinue HRT, gradually tapering off the medication or stopping it abruptly appears to make little difference in the recurrence of symptoms, suggests a 2006 study. A gradual approach may delay the reappearance of symptoms, but does not prevent them from returning.

HRT and Heart Disease: Timing Counts

Women who begin HRT within 10 years of menopause have a much lower risk for heart disease and heart attack than women who start HRT later on, indicates a 2007 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Experts suggest that HRT is relatively safe for younger women (under age 60) but should not be used by older women. HRT should never be used for prevention of heart disease, and HRT increases the risk for stroke regardless of a woman’s age or when she begins taking it.

HRT and Cancer

A dramatic fall in breast cancer rates has accompanied the decline in HRT use, according to a 2007 study in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Women who use HRT for more than 5 years have a 20% greater risk of developing and dying from ovarian cancer than women who have never used HRT, indicates a 2007 Lancet study of nearly 1 million women.

Introduction

The ovaries contain 200,000 - 400,000 follicles, tiny sacks that contain the materials needed to produce mature eggs, or ova. The ovaries produce two major female hormones: estrogen and progesterone.

The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.

Estrogen. Estrogens have an effect on about 300 different tissues throughout a woman's body:

They are essential for the reproductive process and for the development of the female organs.
Estrogens determine the characteristic female distribution of body fat on the hips and thighs, which develops during adolescence.
They also are involved in tissues in the central nervous system (including the brain), the bones, the liver, and the urinary tract.

Estrogen has different forms:

The most potent form is estradiol.
The other important, but less powerful, estrogens are estrone and estriol.

Most of the estrogens in the body are produced by the ovaries, but they can also be formed by other tissues, such as body fat, skin, and muscle.

Progesterone. Progesterone, the other major female hormone, is necessary for thickening and preparing the uterine lining for the fertilized egg.

As a woman ages, her supply of eggs declines. Menopause occurs naturally after the woman's supply of follicles has been depleted and menstruation ends completely. (Menopause may also be induced if the ovaries are surgically removed.)

Perimenopause. Menopause does not occur suddenly. A period called perimenopause usually begins a few years before the last menstrual cycle. Some experts believe there are three stages in the transition:

Early Stage. The beginning of perimenopause can begin in some women in their 30s, but most often it starts between ages 40 - 44. It is marked by changes in menstrual flow and in the length of the cycle. There may be sudden surges in estrogen.
Middle Stage. In the middle cycle, periods become irregular but they are not skipped.
Late Stage. In the late stages, women begin missing the periods until they finally stop. About 6 months before menopause estrogen levels drop significantly. The fall in estrogen triggers the typical symptoms of vaginal dryness and hot flashes (which can last from half a year to more than 5 years after onset of menopause).

Menopause. At the point at which menopause occurs, the following hormonal changes occur:

Ovarian secretion of estrogen and progesterone ends.
Once the ovaries have stopped producing estrogens, however, they still continue to produce small amounts of the male hormone testosterone, which can be converted to estrogen (estradiol) in body fat.
In addition, the adrenal gland continues to produce androstenedione (a male hormone), which is converted to estrone and estradiol in the body fat.

Click the icon to see an image of the adrenal glands.

The total estrogen produced after menopause, however, is far less than that produced during a woman's reproductive years.

The average age of women at menopause today is 51.4 years although it can occur as early as age 40 to as late as the early 60s. Women now have a life expectancy of more than 80 years. Currently, women can expect to live some 30 or 40 years of their life in the postmenopausal state.

Menopause is not a disease. However, many conditions are associated with estrogen depletion, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and other complications. Fortunately, effective treatments are available for these conditions.

In a number of studies, most women have reported menopause as a positive experience and have welcomed it with relief and as a sign of a new stage in life.

Complications

After a woman reaches menopause, her average life expectancy is 30 - 40 years. During those years, however, she faces certain health risks due to lower levels of estrogen that cause accelerated bone loss and an increase in LDL cholesterol (the so-called bad cholesterol). Her risks for serious disorders are estimated at 46% for heart disease, 20% for stroke, and 15% for hip fracture. In addition, about 8% of people over 75 have dementia, with postmenopausal women having 1.4 - 3 times the risk for Alzheimer's disease compared to men.

Heart disease is the number one killer of women. In 2003, more than 480,000 women died from diseases of the heart and circulation (cardiovascular diseases). Although young women have a much lower risk for cardiovascular disease than young men, after menopause women catch up. After age 51, women’s risk of dying from heart disease is very close to that of men. Estrogen loss is believed to play a major role in this increased risk.

Some studies indicate that women who reach menopause at an early age are at increased risk of heart disease. However, recent research suggests that the reverse may also be true. A 2006 study suggested that women who have heart disease risk factors (smoking, high total cholesterol levels, high blood pressure) during premenopause may enter menopause earlier than women with healthier heart profiles. [See In-Depth Report #3: Coronary artery disease.]

Estrogen has the following effects:

Harmful Effects on Cholesterol and Other Lipids (Fats in the Blood). About 2 years before menopause, as estrogen levels begin to decline, the levels of the harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol begin to rise, and the advantageous high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels decrease.
Positive Effect on Blood Flow. Estrogen has significant effects on smoothing, relaxing, and opening blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow and reducing pressure.
Antioxidant Actions. Estrogen is also an antioxidant. That is, it helps clean up particles called oxygen-free radicals that are released by natural chemical processes in the body, which can cause significant damage, including harm to the arteries.
Mixed Effects on Blood Pressure. The effects of estrogen on blood pressure are not clear. Oral contraceptives, for instance, which contain estrogen, appear to increase pressure slightly.

Blood pressure is the force applied against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body. The pressure is determined by the force and amount of blood pumped and the size and flexibility of the arteries.

Mixed Effects on Blood Clotting. Estrogen affects many blood-clotting factors in the liver: It reduces blood viscosity (stickiness) and may enhance fibrinolysis, the natural process for breaking down blood clots. Unfortunately, estrogen also has other actions that increase the risk for blood clots. Women who take hormone replacement therapy are at risk for thromboembolism -- blood clots that block a vessel.

Click the icon to see an image of thromboembolism.

This action may explain the higher rates of adverse heart events now observed in women with heart disease who take HRT.

Osteoporosis is a disease of the skeleton in which bones become brittle and prone to fracture. In other words, the bone loses density. At age 65, about 30% of women have osteoporosis, and nearly all of them are unaware of their condition. After age 80, up to 70% of women develop osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a major risk factor for fracture in the spine and hip. The lifetime risk of spinal fracture in women is about 1 in 3 and that for hip fracture is 1 in 6. Furthermore, between 10 - 20% of women who experience a hip fracture die within a year and about 25% require nursing home treatment.

Click the icon to see an image of osteoporosis.

Experts are still puzzled by the extreme speed-up of bone breakdown (resorption) after menopause. Estrogen may have an impact on bone density in various ways:

Estrogen's most important effect on osteoporosis appears to be prevention of bone break down (resorption). Some research suggests that estrogen may control the lifespan of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone breakdown.
Part of estrogen's beneficial actions may involve maintaining normal levels of vitamin D, an important nutrient in bone protection.

Risk factors for osteoporosis include:

Being tall and thin
Being Caucasian
Smoking
Taking thyroid hormone
Being sedentary
Early menopause or surgical menopause (removal of ovaries)

Women at risk for osteoporosis should have a bone density test to measure their bone mass and then make a decision about treatment after consulting their doctor. [See In-Depth Report #18:Osteoporosis.]

Depression may occur as a woman transitions into menopause (perimenopause), even among women with no history of clinical depression. Hormonal changes and declines in estrogen levels are probably involved in this process. Research suggests that a depressive disorder is 2.5 times more likely to develop during perimenopause than premenopause. Women who transition to menopause at a younger age are at increased risk of a first episode of depression.

Symptoms of clinical depression include:

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Persistent (longer than 2 weeks) sad mood
Decreased energy
Sleep problems (insomnia or oversleeping)
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and hopelessness
Difficulty concentrating

Some of these symptoms may overlap with other symptoms that typically accompany perimenopause. Women who experience these symptoms should talk to their doctor. Depression is treatable. [See In-Depth Report #8: Depression.] For many women, depression eases once they reach menopause.

Estrogen, the primary female hormone, appears to have properties that protect against the memory loss and lower mental functioning associated with normal aging. Estrogen's effects on the brain include:

Laboratory studies suggested that estrogen may help block production of beta-amyloid, the source of the sticky plaques found in Alzheimer's brains.
Estrogen may trigger the temporary growth of nerve pathways in the memory portion of the brain.
Estrogen may stimulate production of the neurotransmitters acetylcholine and serotonin, which are depleted in Alzheimer's patients.
Estrogen also appears to smooth, relax, and open blood vessels, which may help blood flow in the brain.
Estrogen is an antioxidant. That is, it helps clean up free-oxygen radicals, the unstable particles thought to play a role in Alzheimer's.
Studies have been mixed on the association between natural estrogen levels and mental functioning in older women.

Estrogen therapy has been associated with reduced gum bleeding and with decreased bone loss around the teeth, and women who take estrogen are less likely to lose their teeth. Thus, the same principle that helps prevent bone loss in osteoporosis is also at work in preventing bone loss in the mouth.

Estrogen, progesterone, or both appear to protect against cataracts.

Click the icon to see an image of a cataract.

Studies also indicate that estrogen helps prevent glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Click the icon to see an image of glaucoma.

Click the icon to see an image of macular degeneration.

The drop in body estrogen levels brought on by menopause may contribute to both urinary stress and urge incontinence.

Women are at increased risk for recurrent urinary tract infections after menopause. Research suggests that estrogen may prevent infection by increasing the number of lactobacilli, a microorganism that fights infection by preventing bacteria from adhering to vaginal cells.

Estrogen may help prevent slackness and dryness in the skin and reduce wrinkles.

Menopause is associated with more sleeping problems, including inability to fall asleep and nighttime wakefulness.

Symptoms

The most prominent symptoms of the transition to menopause include:

Hot flashes and night sweats. Women often experience hot flashes as an intense build-up in body heat, followed by sweating and chills. Some women report accompanying anxiety as the sensation builds. In most cases, hot flashes resolve within 2 years of menopause, although in some women they may persist for years. Women who have a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) are less likely to experience hot flashes than women who have a natural menopause. However, women who have surgical removal of both ovaries, and who do not receive hormone replacement therapy, may have more severe hot flashes than women who enter menopause naturally.
Heart pounding or racing can occur, with or without hot flashes.
Difficulty sleeping. Insomnia is common during perimenopause. It may be caused by the hot flashes or it may be an independent symptom of hormonal changes. A 2006 study indicated that severe hot flashes are frequently associated with chronic insomnia.
Mood changes. Mood changes are most likely to be a combination of sleeplessness, hormonal swings, and psychological factors as a woman undergoes this intense passage in her life. Once a woman has reached a menopausal state, however, depression is no more common than before, and women with a history of premenstrual depression often experience significant mood improvement.
Sexuality. Sexual responsiveness tends to decline in most women after menopause, although other aspects of sexual function, including interest, frequency, and vaginal dryness vary. It is useful to remember that the symptoms of menopause eventually go away.
Forgetfulness. This appears to be one of the few symptoms that are common across most cultural and ethnic groups.
Urine leakage.
Vaginal dryness.
Joint stiffness.

Women from different ethnic and or cultural groups report different menopausal symptoms. For example, in one study hot flashes occurred in about 30% of Caucasians and 45% of African-Americans. Hispanic women tended to complain of urine leakage, vaginal dryness, and heart pounding. Japanese and Chinese women experienced far fewer menopausal symptoms, except for forgetfulness. All groups complained about this symptom.

Lifestyle Changes

Simple changes in lifestyle and diet can help control menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. Avoid hot flash triggers like spicy foods, hot beverages, caffeine, and alcohol. Dress in layers so that clothes can be removed when a hot flash occurs. For vaginal dryness, moisturizers, and non-estrogen lubricants, such as KY Jelly, Replens, and Astroglide are available.

When women reach menopause, they are at increased risk for heart disease. A heart-healthy diet is an important way to control cholesterol and blood pressure levels. [See In-Depth Report #42: Heart-healthy diet.]

In 2007, the American Heart Association (AHA) issued revised diet and lifestyle recommendations. The current guidelines recommend:

Balancing calorie intake and physical activity to achieve or maintain a healthy body weight. (Controlling weight, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly are essential companions of any diet program. Try to get at least 30 minutes, and preferably 60 – 90 minutes, of daily exercise.)
Consuming a diet rich in a variety of vegetables and fruits. Vegetables and fruits that are deeply colored (spinach, carrots, peaches, berries) are especially recommended as they have the highest micronutrient content.
Choosing whole-grain, high-fiber foods. These include fruits, vegetables, and legumes (beans). Good whole grain choices include whole wheat, oats/oatmeal, rye, barley, brown rice, buckwheat, bulgur, millet, and quinoa.
Eating fish, especially oily fish, at least twice a week (about 8 ounces/week). Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Consumption of these fatty acids is linked to a reduced risk of sudden death and death from coronary artery disease. Women with existing heart disease may also consider taking a daily dietary supplement of 850 – 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA.
Limiting daily intake of saturated fat (found mostly in animal products) to less than 7% of total calories, trans fat (found in hydrogenated fats, commercially baked products, and many fast foods) to less than 1% of total calories, and cholesterol (found in eggs, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, shellfish) to less than 300 mg per day. Choose lean meats and vegetable alternatives (such as soy). Select fat-free and low-fat dairy products. Grill, bake, or broil fish, meat, and skinless poultry.
Using little or no salt in your foods. Reducing salt can lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease and heart failure.
Cutting down on beverages and foods that contain added sugars (corn syrups, sucrose, glucose, fructose, maltrose, dextrose, concentrated fruit juice, honey).
If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation. The AHA recommends limiting alcohol to no more than 1 drink per day for women.
The AHA does not recommend antioxidant supplements (such as vitamin E, C, or beta carotene) or folic acid supplements for prevention of heart disease.

Soy is an excellent food. It is rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and provides all essential proteins. Soy proteins have more vitamins and minerals than meat or dairy proteins. They also contain polyunsaturated fats, which are better than the saturated fat found in meat. The best sources of soy protein are soy products (tofu, soy milk, soybeans).

For many years, soy was promoted as a food that could help lower cholesterol and improve heart disease risk factors. But an important 2006 review of studies found that soy protein and isoflavone supplement pills do not really have any effects on cholesterol or heart disease prevention. The AHA still recommends soy foods, but not supplements, as a healthy food choice. The benefits of soy on menopausal symptoms are mixed, according to research (see below in Alternative Therapies). A 2006 study reported that increased soy intake does not help reduce the frequency or severity of hot flashes and night sweats.

Soy is high in estrogen-like plant chemicals called isoflavones, which may improve bone health in older women. A 2005 review of 15 clinical trials found that, although the results were mixed, isoflavones appeared to decrease bone loss, especially in younger postmenopausal women. Soy food products, such as tofu, that also contain calcium may be particularly beneficial.

A combination of calcium and vitamin D is important for helping to prevent bone loss. [See In-Depth Report #18: Osteoporosis.]

Calcium. Women should be sure they have sufficient calcium and vitamin D in their diet by consuming low-fat dairy products or calcium-enriched orange juice. Calcium supplements may be another option for some women. For calcium supplements, calcium citrate (Citracal) is better absorbed than calcium carbonate (Tums, Os-Cal) and other types of calcium compounds. Calcium citrate was the first calcium supplement reported to preserve bone density after menopause.

Click the icon to see an image of the benefits of calcium.

The standard recommended calcium dose for adults age 50 years and older is 1,000 – 1,500 mg per day, depending on risk factors. High doses (over 2,500 mg per day) of calcium supplements may increase the risk for kidney stones. (Because many commercial foods are now fortified with calcium, this upper limit may be easier to reach than people think.)

Click the icon to see an image of calcium sources.

For years, doctors have recommended that women take supplements of calcium plus vitamin D to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk for fractures. However, a 2006 New England Journal of Medicine study raised some questions about this approach. In the Women’s Health Initiative study, women were randomly assigned to receive either 1,000 mg of calcium carbonate plus 400 IU of vitamin D a day or placebo. The results indicated that daily calcium and vitamin D supplements:

Improve hip bone density slightly (by 1%)
Prevent hip fracture, but only for women who consistently take the supplements. (Another 2006 study supported this finding.)
Do not prevent spine or other types of fractures
Produce a slight increase in the risk of kidney stones

The medical community has differing views on how to interpret these findings. Some doctors recommend that women over age 60 should still consider taking calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Other doctors feel that due to the risks of kidney stones, supplements are beneficial only for women (especially those over age 70) who do not get enough calcium in their diets. Ask your doctor whether you should take calcium supplements.

Vitamin D. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract and is the essential companion to calcium in maintaining strong bones. Some studies suggest that vitamin D protects against osteoporosis only in combination with calcium.

Vitamin D is manufactured in the skin using energy from the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. It can also be obtained from dietary supplements. As a person ages, vitamin D levels decline. Levels also fall during winter months and when people have inadequate sunlight. Pollution may also contribute to less sunlight and declining vitamin D levels.

Click the icon to see an image of vitamin D sources.

Daily dosage guidelines vary. General recommendations include:

400 IU for people age 50 - 60
600 IU for those over age 70 who do not have sufficient exposure to sunlight. (Some evidence suggests that higher doses of vitamin D -- up to 800 IU per day -- may help prevent fractures in people with osteoporosis.)
800 – 1,000 IU for adults over age 50 (the amount recommended by the National Osteoporosis Foundation)

Drinking milk fortified with vitamin D and sunlight exposure supply most people's need for vitamin D. (One cup of whole milk provides about 100 IU of vitamin D.) Oily fish (sardines especially, as well as salmon, fresh tuna, and mackerel) are also important dietary sources of vitamin D. Wild salmon has a much higher vitamin D content than farmed salmon.

Effect on the Heart. One drink a day in women who are not at risk for alcohol abuse may be beneficial for the heart. Red wine in particular contains a substance called resveratrol, which is classified as a phytoestrogen and has estrogen-like effects.

Effect on Bones. Alcohol has different effects on bones depending on how much is consumed. A 2004 study found that moderate wine consumption was linked to improved bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Alcohol, in moderate amounts, may increase estrogen levels. Excessive drinking, however, has been associated with brittle bones.

Effect on Breast Cancer. Women who drink face an increased risk for breast cancer, but the risk associated with mild-to-moderate drinking is small.

Many women need to increase physical activity and reduce caloric intake before and after menopause. Weight gain is common during these years, and it can be sudden and distressing, particularly when habitual exercise and eating patterns are no longer effective in controlling weight. Gaining weight around the abdomen (the so-called apple shape) is a specific risk factor for heart disease and diabetes and many other health problems. A 2007 study suggested that calcium and vitamin D supplements may help prevent weight gain in postmenopausal women. The benefit was greatest for women who had not been getting enough daily calcium in their diets.

Click the icon to see an image of different types of weight gain.

For protection against all aging diseases, women, whether or not they are taking hormone replacement therapy, should pursue a lifestyle that includes a balanced aerobic and weight resistance exercise program appropriate to their age and medical conditions. Brisk walking, stair climbing, hiking, dancing, and tai chi are all helpful. Several studies report that exercise can help control hot flashes. A healthy diet plus regular, consistent exercise can also help ward off the weight gain associated with menopause. Weight-bearing exercises are specifically helpful for protecting against bone loss. Women should strive for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day (for weight loss, 60 – 90 minutes is preferred). While more exercise is better, any exercise is helpful. A 2007 study showed that postmenopausal sedentary women who exercised only 75 minutes a week experienced improvement in fitness levels.

If a woman smokes, she should quit. Smoking is linked to a decline in estrogen levels. Women who smoke experience menopause about 2 years earlier than nonsmokers. Smoking doubles a woman’s odds of developing coronary heart disease and is a major risk factor for osteoporosis.

Aspirin. The American Heart Association recommends daily low-dose aspirin for all women age 65 years and older who can safely take aspirin. High-risk women may require 75 – 325 mg per day; lower-risk women may benefit from 81 mg a day or 100 mg every other day.

There are many unproven methods for relieving menopausal symptoms, some more effective than others. Acupuncture, meditation, and relaxation techniques are all harmless ways to reduce the stress of menopause, and some people report great benefit from these practices.

Acupuncture, hypnosis, and biofeedback are all alternative ways to control pain. Acupuncture involves the insertion of tiny sterile needles, slightly thicker than a human hair, at specific points on the body.

Women often try herbal or so-called natural remedies to treat menopausal symptoms. There have been numerous studies conducted on various herbal products and other complementary and alterative therapies. These studies have not found that these approaches have any benefit. Some can have adverse side effects.

Many studies have researched plant estrogens (phytoestrogens), which are generally categorized as isoflavones (found in soy and red clover) and lignans (found in whole wheat and flaxseed). No evidence to date indicates that phytoestrogen supplements provide any benefit for hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms. Nevertheless, foods containing them may be healthful.

Supplements containing specific isoflavones found in soy -- typically the estrogen-like compounds genistein and daidzein -- do not appear to provide any benefits compared to the whole soy protein. Taking them separately may, in fact, cause harm, including a possible increase in estrogen-related cancers.

The following herbs are sometimes use for menopausal symptoms and carry certain risks:

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), also known as squaw root, is the herbal remedy most studied for menopausal symptoms. Although it contains a plant estrogen, this substance does not act like an estrogen in the human body. Studies have shown mixed results in preventing hot flashes. A rigorous 2006 study found that black cohosh worked no better than placebo for treating hot flashes and night sweats. While it may be ineffective, black cohosh appears to be safe. Headaches and gastrointestinal problems are common side effects.
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) does not appear helpful for hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms. Do not use dong quai with blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin, because it may cause bleeding complications.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) may help menopausal symptoms of depression and sleep problems, but it has no effect on hot flashes.
Kava (Piper methysticum) may relieve anxiety but it does not help hot flashes. This herb is generally considered unsafe, due to several reports of liver failure and death, especially in people with liver disease.
Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is an herb sometimes used for menstrual problems as well as menopausal symptoms. It contains a plant progesterone. However, like black cohosh, there is no evidence that the human body can convert this substance into a hormone. Patients should be aware that some commercial herbal wild yam products contain prescription progesterones.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a weak male hormone secreted by the adrenal gland. It is available as a dietary supplement. DHEA has no benefit for hot flashes and may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Generally, manufacturers of herbal remedies and dietary supplements do not need FDA approval to sell their products. Just like with drugs, herbs and supplements can affect the body's chemistry, and therefore have the potential to produce side effects that may be harmful. There have been a number of reported cases of serious and even lethal side effects from herbal products. Patients should check with their doctors before using any herbal remedies or dietary supplements.

Medications

Doctors used to believe that HRT could help reduce the risk of heart disease and other health risks in addition to treating menopausal symptoms. The results of an important study, called the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), led doctors to revise their recommendations regarding HRT.

The WHI, started in 1991, enrolled 161,809 women between the ages of 50 - 79 in 40 different medical centers. Part of the study was intended to examine the health benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy, including the risks of breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots.

In 2002, one component of the WHI, which studied the use of estrogen and progestin in women who had a uterus, was stopped early because the health risks exceeded the health benefits. The main reason for stopping the estrogen-progestin study was a 26% increase in breast cancer. This combination therapy study also showed an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and dementia. There was a reduced risk for colorectal cancer and bone fractures, but these benefits did not outweigh the considerable risks.

In 2004, a second component of the WHI, which studied estrogen-only therapy in women who no longer have a uterus, was stopped early. This was primarily because of an increase in the risk for strokes and blood clots. The study also found the estrogen-only therapy had no effect on heart attack or colorectal cancer risk. An update in 2006 suggested that estrogen-only therapy does not increase breast cancer risk over the short term (average 7 years) but may increase risk when taken for a longer time (15 years or more). Another WHI update, from 2007, indicated that estrogen-only therapy can help reduce calcium deposits in the coronary arteries (a sign of heart disease) for women in their 50s who have had a hysterectomy. However, women who have a uterus cannot take estrogen-only HRT because it increases the risk for uterine cancer. Combination estrogen-progestin HRT does not have the same benefits for cholesterol reduction as estrogen-only HRT.

While the WHI studies indicate that HRT should not be prescribed for prevention of chronic diseases, many doctors still accept its use for short-term treatment of moderate-to-severe hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, and in women undergoing premature menopause for medical or other reasons. Current guidelines recommend using the lowest possible dose for the shortest duration of time. A 2007 position statement from the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) supports short-term use of HRT for treatment of hot flashes and other vasomotor symptoms in recently menopausal women who have a low risk for stroke. However, NAMS recommends that women who are at risk for heart disease or breast cancer should avoid hormone therapy and try other options to manage symptoms.

When a woman stops taking HRT, perimenopausal symptoms may recur. There is some debate about whether it is better to abruptly stop the medication or to taper it off gradually. A 2006 study suggested that gradual discontinuation of HRT delays -- but does not prevent -- the reappearance of symptoms. However, when a woman reaches full menopause, symptoms will eventually go away.

Hormones Used in HRT. Hormone replacement therapy uses either estrogen alone (known as ET or unopposed estrogen) or in combination with forms of progesterone (known as combined hormone therapy or EPT). Progesterone is referred to by one of several names:

Progesterone is the name for the natural hormone.
Progestin is the term for any hormone, natural or synthetic, that causes progesterone effects.
Progestogen is any hormone that has effects similar to progesterone.

Both ET and EPT are available in many forms, including oral tablets, skin patches, and vaginal and skin applications. A new form approved by the FDA in 2004 is a topical estrogen gel that is applied to the arm.

HRT is mainly recommended for relieving menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, and mild depression. HRT does not prevent certain other problems associated with menopausal changes, such as thinning hair.

Oral hormonal medications and skin patches are equally effective in reducing hot flashes, mild depression, and sleep problems. Progestins may sometimes be prescribed alone for hot flashes and other acute menopausal symptoms, though they can cause side effects, such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness. Estrogen creams, rings, or vaginal tablets restore vaginal elasticity and lubrication and improve sexual pleasure.

HRT may be useful for some women at high risk for osteoporosis, although other drugs, such as bisphosphonates, should be considered first. It increases bone density and also appears to improve balance and protects against falling. Studies also report reductions in fractures (especially hip fractures) among women taking HRT, but the benefits may not outweigh the risks of HRT. It appears that the beneficial effects wear off soon after therapy is stopped. Estrogen must be taken life long for maximum protection against osteoporosis, which then increases the risk for adverse health effects.

Heart Disease. HRT does not prevent heart disease and can increase the risk for heart disease and heart attack, especially in older women. An important 2007 Women’s Health Initiative study in the Journal of the American Medical Association indicated that this risk is time and age dependent. The study found that women who began HRT within 10 years of menopause had less risk of heart disease than women who begin HRT later on. This study suggests that HRT may be safest for women younger than age 60, and should be avoided by women older than age 60. Any woman who is considering HRT should be sure to have her blood pressure and cholesterol levels evaluated.

Another 2007 study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), also indicated that timing is important. The NEJM study found that that estrogen-only HRT may help reduce calcium deposits in coronary arteries in younger women (age 50 - 59) who have had a hysterectomy. (Because of the increased risk for uterine cancer, estrogen-only HRT is only appropriate for women who no longer have a uterus. Women who have a uterus need to take estrogen-progestin HRT. And, estrogen can increase the risk for heart attack in women who have advanced heart disease.) Although the NEJM study found some heart benefits for estrogen-only HRT for younger women, experts still advise that HRT should be used for only a few years. Any woman who is considering HRT should be sure to have her blood pressure and cholesterol levels evaluated.

Stroke. HRT increases the risk of stroke, regardless of years since menopause. In addition, HRT appears to worsen the outlook for women who have had a stroke.

Mental Decline. Observational studies had suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helped prevent mental decline and even Alzheimer's disease after menopause. Other studies have found no differences in mental performance and no protection from Alzheimer's disease in women taking HRT compared to non-users. A 2004 review of the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study found that combined HRT did not reduce the risk of cognitive impairment, and actually increased the risk of dementia among women ages 65 and over.

Thromboembolism. HRT is associated with a higher risk for thromboembolism, in which blood clots form in deep veins. This places women at risk for pulmonary embolism, in which the blood clot travels to the lungs.

Click the icon to see an image of a pulmonary embolism.

Breast Cancer. Because breast tissue growth is highly sensitive to estrogens, the more a woman is exposed to estrogen over her lifetime, the higher the risk for breast cancer. A number of studies have reported a higher risk for breast cancer in postmenopausal women taking HRT that contains both estrogen and progestin. A combination of estrogen and testosterone also increases breast cancer risk. A 2005 study suggested that HRT with no or low progestin is safer than standard estrogen-progestin combination therapy.

Several 2006 studies of women who had a hysterectomy indicated that estrogen alone does not increase overall breast cancer risk when the drug is used for 7 years or less. However, women who take the drug for 15 years or more do have an increased risk. Women who are at low risk for breast cancer tend to have fewer breast cancers with estrogen alone, while women at higher risk tend to have more breast cancers. In addition, estrogen therapy may cause abnormal mammogram results. Breast tissue density increases with HRT, which makes mammograms more difficult to read and leads to more breast biopsies. Women who take estrogen HRT should be aware that they need frequent mammogram screenings.

As further evidence of the association between HRT and breast cancer, a 2007 New England Journal of Medicine study noted that breast cancer rates have fallen as HRT use has declined.

Endometrial (Uterine) Cancers. Estrogen overstimulates the tissue lining the uterus (the endometrium) and causes uncontrolled cell growth, a condition known as hyperplasia, which is a strong risk factor for cancer. Taking unopposed estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) increases the risk of endometrial cancer at least five-fold. Adding progestin to HRT appears to pose no risk for this cancer. However, a 2007 study indicated that short-term treatment (3 years) with ERT is associated with a relatively low risk of endometrial cancer. Women who take ERT should anticipate uterine bleeding, especially if they are obese, and may need endometrial biopsies and other gynecologic tests.

Ovarian Cancer. HRT appears to increase the risk for ovarian cancer. A 2007 UK study of nearly 1 million women found that women who used HRT for more than 5 years were 20% more likely to develop and die from ovarian cancer than women who had never taken HRT.

Gallstones. HRT is associated with a higher risk for gallstones.

Despite its risks, hormone replacement therapy appears to be the best treatment for hot flashes. Nonhormonal treatments for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms include:

Antidepressants. The antidepressants known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are sometimes used for managing mood changes and hot flashes. They include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), venlafaxine (Effexor), and paroxetine (Paxil, Asimia). A 2006 review of nonhormonal therapies, found that paroxetine in particular may help hot flashes. However, paroxetine, like other antidepressants, can cause headache, anxiety, and sexual problems. A 2007 study suggested that the antidepressant citalopram (Celexa), given alone or with HRT, may help treat hot flashes.

An investigational antidepressant, desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), is also being studied for treatment of hot flashes, night sweats, and perimenopausal sleep problems. Research presented at the 2007 meeting of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists indicated that desvenlaxafine, which is related to venlaxafine, showed promise in improving symptoms.

Gabapentin.Several small studies suggest that gabapentin (Neurontin), a drug used for seizures and nerve pain, may relieve hot flashes. Gabapentin may cause drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and swelling of the hands and feet.

Clonidine. Clonidine (Catapres) is a drug used to treat high blood pressure. Studies show it may help manage hot flashes. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation

Testosterone. Some doctors prescribe combinations of estrogen and small amounts of the male hormone testosterone to improve sexual function and increase bone density. Side effects of testosterone include increased body hair, acne, fluid retention, anxiety, and depression. Testosterone also adversely affects cholesterol and lipid levels. A 2006 study indicated that combined estrogen and testosterone can increase the risk of breast cancer.


HRT Form	Brand Name	Active Ingredient	Side Effects
Oral Estrogens	Premarin	Natural conjugated estrogen, which is a mixture of estrogens derived from the urine of pregnant mares	Bleeding after withdrawal. It is a primary reason why many women stop treatment, although usually lighter or shorter compared to before menopause. If it is distressing, patient should consider continuous estrogen and progestin therapy. Irregular bleeding. This should be checked with the doctor for possible problems. Nausea and vomiting. If it occurs, usually does so only during the first 3 months and is minimal. Rarely with low doses. Headaches. Cramps. Risk for blood clots.
	Cenestin	Synthetic conjugated estrogen, which is a mixture of estrogens derived from compounds found in yams and soy
	Estratab, Menest	Plant-derived estrogens, called esterified estrogens. Usually made from modified soy
	Estrace (oral)	Estradiol, the most potent natural estrogen
	Ogen, Ortho-Est	Estropipate, a version of estrone, which is a weaker form of estrogen
	Estrovis	Quinetrol, a synthetic estrogen
	Estinyl	Synthetic form estradiol, the most potent estrogen

Oral Progestins	Provera, Amen, Curretab, Cycrin	Medroxyprogesterone, a synthetic progestin	Breast tenderness. Usually subsides in 3 - 4 months and can be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers and possibly by decreasing caffeine intake and adding vitamin E. Headache. Fluid build-up. Bloating. Fatigue, unusual tiredness, weakness. Depression, irritability, or other mood changes.
	Norlutin, Aygestin, Norlutate	Norethindrone and norethindrone acetate, synthetic progestins
		Norgestrel

Oral Combinations of Estrogen and Progestin	Prempro, Premphase	Conjugated estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone	May have some of the side effects of both estrogen and progestin. Continuous regimens eliminate menstrual bleeding in more than half of women. Investigators are studying the use of higher progestin doses or a lower estrogen doses and comparing combinations for further reduction of bleeding risk.
	Activelle, Femhrt	Estradiol and norethindrone or norethindrone acetate
	Ortho-Prefest	Estradiol and norgestimate
	Angeliq	Estradiol and drospirenone

Skin Patch Administration of HRT	Estraderm, Alora, Climara, Vivelle, FemPatch, Evorel	Estradiol	Skin irritation where the patch is applied most common. Hormonal side effects associated with formulation of patch.
Skin Patch Administration of HRT	CombiPath	Estradiol plus norethindrone (a progestin)

Vaginal Creams for dryness and irritation	Estrace (cream)	Estradiol (potent estrogen)	Hormonal side effects associated with estrogen or progestins, depending on formulation.
	Ogen (cream)	Estropipate (weaker estrogen.)
	Premarin (cream)	Conjugated natural estrogens
	Ortho-dienestrol (cream)	Dienestrol (synthetic estrogen)
	Crinone (cream)	A natural progesterone
Other forms of vaginal administration	Vagifem (vaginal tablet)
	Estring (vagina Ring)	Estradiol
	Other forms: injections, nasal sprays, and as pellets inserted under the skin twice a year.
Topical Gel	EstroGel	Estradiol	Hormonal side effects associated with estrogen.

Resources

www.menopause.org -- North American Menopause Society
www.acog.com -- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
www.nia.nih.gov -- National Institute on Aging
www.nhlbi.nih.gov/whi/recommend.htm -- Women's Health Initiative Study
www.nih.gov/PHTindex.htm -- National Institutes of Health -- Menopausal Hormone Therapy Information
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/menopauseandcam -- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

References

Beral V; Million Women Study Collaborators; Bull D, Green J, Reeves G. Ovarian cancer and hormone replacement therapy in the Million Women Study. Lancet. 2007 May 19;369(9574):1703-10.

Caan B, Neuhouser M, Aragaki A, Lewis CB, Jackson R, Leboff MS, et al. Calcium plus vitamin d supplementation and the risk of postmenopausal weight gain. Arch Intern Med. 2007 May 14;167(9):893-902.

Church TS, Earnest CP, Skinner JS, Blair SN. Effects of different doses of physical activity on cardiorespiratory fitness among sedentary, overweight or obese postmenopausal women with elevated blood pressure: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2007 May 16;297(19):2081-91.

Haimov-Kochman R, Barak-Glantz E, Arbel R, Leefsma M, Brzezinski A, Milwidsky A, et al. Gradual discontinuation of hormone therapy does not prevent the reappearance of climacteric symptoms: a randomized prospective study. Menopause. 2006 May-Jun;13(3):370-6.

Jackson RD, LaCroix AZ, Gass M, Wallace RB, Robbins J, Lewis CE, et al. Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and the risk of fractures. N Engl J Med. 2006 Feb 16;354(7):669-83.

Kalay AE, Demir B, Haberal A, Kalay M, Kandemir O. Efficacy of citalopram on climacteric symptoms. Menopause. 2007 Mar-Apr;14(2):223-9.

Manson JE, Allison MA, Rossouw JE, Carr JJ, Langer RD, Hsia J, et al. Estrogen therapy and coronary-artery calcification. N Engl J Med. 2007 Jun 21;356(25):2591-602.

Mosca L, Banka CL, Benjamin EJ, Berra K, Bushnell C, Dolor RJ, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for cardiovascular disease prevention in women: 2007 update. Circulation. 2007 Mar 20;115(11):1481-501.

Nedrow A, Miller J, Walker M, Nygren P, Huffman LH, Nelson HD. Complementary and alternative therapies for the management of menopause-related symptoms: a systematic evidence review. Arch Intern Med. 2006 Jul 24;166(14):1453-65.

Newton KM, Reed SD, LaCroix AZ, Grothaus LC, Ehrlich K, Guiltinan J. Treatment of vasomotor symptoms of menopause with black cohosh, multibotanicals, soy, hormone therapy, or placebo: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2006 Dec 19;145(12):869-79.

North American Menopause Society. Estrogen and progestogen use in peri- and postmenopausal women: March 2007 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2007 Mar-Apr;14(2):168-82.

North American Menopause Society. The role of local vaginal estrogen for treatment of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: 2007 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2007 May-Jun;14(3 Pt 1):355-69.

Ohayon MM. Severe hot flashes are associated with chronic insomnia. Arch Intern Med. 2006 Jun 26;166(12):1262-8.

Ravdin PM, Cronin KA, Howlader N, Berg CD, Chlebowski RT, Feuer EJ, et al. The decrease in breast-cancer incidence in 2003 in the United States. N Engl J Med. 2007 Apr 19;356(16):1670-4.

Rossouw JE, Prentice RL, Manson JE, Wu L, Barad D, Barnabei VM, et al. Postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of cardiovascular disease by age and years since menopause. JAMA. 2007 Apr 4;297(13):1465-77.

Steiner AZ, Xiang M, Mack WJ, Shoupe D, Felix JC, Lobo RA, et al. Unopposed estradiol therapy in postmenopausal women: results from two randomized trials. Obstet Gynecol. 2007 Mar;109(3):581-7.

Tamimi RM, Hankinson SE, Chen WY, Rosner B, Colditz GA. Combined estrogen and testosterone use and risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Arch Intern Med. 2006 Jul 24;166(14):1483-9.

Review Date:
6/25/2007
Reviewed By:
Harvey Simon, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.

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adam.com

Menopause

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:34:55 -0700

Overview

Signs and Symptoms
Causes
Risk Factors
Diagnosis
Preventive Care
Treatment
Other Considerations
Supporting Research

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Menopause -- the end of menstruation and fertility -- is a natural biological event, not a disease or illness. However, for some women physical and emotional symptoms can be difficult. Menopause involves hormonal changes in your body that may cause physical symptoms: As the ovaries stop producing female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone), estrogen levels decline over a period of years. That decline can cause hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. For some women, menopause may bring on feelings of sadness. However, it's important to remember that menopause doesn't mean an end to your sexuality or that you are any less feminine. In fact, some women find the years after menopause to be a time of freedom, when they no longer have to think about having a period or becoming pregnant. Today, an estimated 50 million women in the United States have reached menopause. Most women will spend at least one-third of their lives in or beyond menopause.

Technically, menopause is considered complete when a woman has not had a period for an entire year. On average, menopause occurs at age 51, but it varies from person to person. Because menopause is a process that happens over several years, it is divided into two phases. Perimenopause, when you begin experiencing symptoms but are still having periods, can last 4 - 5 years. Postmenopause occurs once you have gone 12 months without a period. Your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and produce much less estrogen.

Another type of menopause, known as surgical menopause, occurs if both ovaries are removed for medical reasons. This may be done at the time of a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).

Postmenopausal women lose the protective effects of estrogen and are at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease. There are a variety of treatments available, however, to help ease the symptoms and reduce health risks associated with menopause.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman. Some studies even suggest that the signs and symptoms of menopause may vary between cultural groups. For example, up to 80% of American women experience hot flashes while only 10% of Japanese women experience that symptom. Some researchers speculate that may be due to differences in diet, lifestyle, or cultural attitudes toward aging.

The following are general symptoms of menopause:

Irregular periods
Hot flashes -- flushing of face and chest; may be accompanied by heart palpitations, dizziness, headaches
Night sweats
Cold hands and feet
Vaginal dryness
Insomnia
Mood changes -- depression, irritability, tension (usually occurs with sleep disturbances)
Gain in abdominal fat

Post menopausal women are at increased risk for :

Osteoporosis
Heart disease
Macular degeneration (a serious eye disorder and the leading cause of blindness in the Western world)
Glaucoma
Colon cancer

Causes

Menopause is caused by a gradual reduction in the amount of estrogen and progesterone produced in the ovaries. Both hormones regulate your periods and enable you to become pregnant. In the years leading up to menopause, the ovaries start to produce lower amounts of estrogen and progesterone. The timing of menopause can vary greatly from woman to woman. Studies indicate that women who smoke may reach menopause at a younger age than those who do not smoke. Some researchers think the timing of menopause may be hereditary, but so far there isn't much scientific evidence to back up that theory.

Although menopause usually occurs naturally, it can happen through surgical removal of the ovaries (surgical menopause). Menopause can also be caused by ovarian failure from cancer therapy, such as chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

Risk Factors

Menopause is part of the natural aging process for all women, unless it is caused by surgical removal of both ovaries (a bilateral oophorectomy). Surgical menopause tends to cause symptoms to come on more quickly. The following risk factors may also make menopausal symptoms occur faster:

Radiation or chemotherapy
Premature ovarian failure (when ovaries stop producing hormones before age 40)
Smoking
Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormone)
Low production of hormones by the adrenal glands

Diagnosis

Most women will recognize the signs that they are going through menopause. However, if you start to skip periods suddenly you should see your doctor for a pregnancy test -- it is possible to become pregnant when going through perimenopause (as long as you are having periods, even irregular ones, you can become pregnant). In some cases, your doctor may order blood tests to check hormone levels. Your doctor may also suggest a bone density measurement. If you are having moderate-to-severe symptoms that interfere with your life, talk to your doctor about what treatments might be right for you.

Preventive Care

Although you can't prevent menopause, you can take action to reduce your risk of complications (such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease):

Stop smoking -- Smokers tend to begin menopause 1 - 2 years earlier than nonsmokers, and are also at higher risk for heart disease and osteoporosis.
Take calcium supplements to protect against bone loss.
Exercise -- Exercise can reduce hot flashes and improve mood, and weight-bearing exercise (like walking) helps keep bones strong.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet to avoid weight gain and keep cholesterol in check.
Talk to your doctor about estrogen replacement therapy -- For some women the benefits of estrogen replacement therapy may outweigh the increased risk of breast cancer and stroke. (See "Medications.")

Treatment

Menopause itself doesn't require treatment, but you may want to treat some symptoms and reduce your risk for long-term medical conditions, such as heart disease and osteoporosis, that are more common after menopause. Many treatment options are available, so it is important to discuss them with your doctor.

In the past, a number of women took hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which consists of supplemental estrogen and progesterone. Those without a uterus (womb) sometimes took estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), which consists of supplemental estrogen alone. Only women who have had a hysterectomy usually take ERT, because taking estrogen without progesterone increases the risk of uterine cancer.

Taking HRT seemed to help reduce symptoms such as hot flashes, and it was thought that it also reduced a woman's risk of heart disease. But an important 2002 study, the Women's Health Initiative, found that HRT and ERT posed more risks than benefits. That study showed that women who took HRT for several years had an increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots. Women who took ERT long-term (for more than 7 years) had a greater risk of stroke.

While the Women's Health Initiative didn't find a greater risk of breast cancer among women who took ERT for 7 years, other studies have found a slightly increased risk at 10 years. Right now the evidence shows that taking estrogen long-term slightly increases the risk for breast cancer, and taking it with progesterone increases the risk more.

Researchers have begun new studies to look at HRT, but the results aren't known yet. The Women's Health Initiative looked at women who were already past menopause (the average age was 63). So researchers don't know if the same results would apply to women who took HRT early in menopause, and for a shorter period of time. Currently, the decision about whether to take HRT is an individual one. If your menopause symptoms are so severe that they interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using HRT for a short period of time.

In addition, there are non-hormonal medications and non-drug therapies that can help reduce your symptoms and lower your risk for long-term medical problems that sometimes occur after menopause.

Lifestyle

Exercise

The benefits of exercise include:

Keeping bones strong and warding off osteoporosis (through weight-bearing exercise, such as walking)
Reducing hot flashes
Boosting mood
Enhancing memory and concentration
Lowering cholesterol

Diet

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help you reduce the risks and discomforts associated with menopause. A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, for example, may reduce your risk of heart disease by providing the following benefits:

Lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides (fats in the blood)
Lower blood pressure
Maintain a healthy weight

Some evidence suggests that eating soy-based foods such as tofu might help reduce certain symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes. Adding plenty of calcium and vitamin D to your diet should help you avoid bone loss. (Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, almonds, and dried beans). High-fiber foods may also help lower your risk of high cholesterol and heart disease.

Medications

Several medications are available to treat the symptoms of menopause and to help you maintain your health as you grow older.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) -- Your doctor may suggest using supplemental estrogen to provide relief from your symptoms depending on a number of factors, including your medical and family history, risk for hormone-related cancers (such as breast cancer), age, and the severity of your symptoms. You and your doctor will carefully weigh the risks and benefits of HRT and prescribe the lowest dose of estrogen for your symptoms.

Low-dose antidepressants -- Venlafaxine (Effexor), an antidepressant that is related to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin uptake reinhibitors (SSRIs), can help reduce hot flashes. Other SSRIs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), may also help.

Gabapentin (Neurontin) -- This drug, which is approved to treat seizures, also helps reduce hot flashes.

Bisphosphonates -- These drugs are used to prevent and treat osteoporosis. They reduce bone loss and the risk of fractures. They include:

Alendronate (Fosamax)
Risedronate (Actonel)
Ibandronate (Boniva)
Zoledronate (Zometa)

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) -- This type of drugs has a positive effect on bone health, much like estrogen but without estrogen's side effects. Currently one drug, raloxifene (Evista), is approved for use. It can cause hot flashes, and should not be taken by anyone with a history of blood clots.

Vaginal estrogen -- Estrogen tablets, rings, or creams can be applied locally to relieve vaginal dryness.

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

Soy (Glycine max) -- Soy foods contain plant-based estrogens (phytoestrogens), though researchers aren't sure how strong their estrogen-like effects are. It's been proposed that these phytoestrogens, called isoflavones, could help treat symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. But so far the evidence is mixed: about half the studies show that isoflavones can help reduce symptoms, while the other half find them no better than placebo. (Some symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes, show improvement when women take placebo, making it harder to tell if a treatment is working.) Some researchers think other nutrients in soy are responsible for reducing symptoms. Researchers also aren't sure whether isoflavone supplements would increase risk of breast cancer after menopause, just as supplemental estrogen does. More studies are needed; in the meantime, it may be better to include soy foods in your diet instead of taking supplements; talk to your doctor to see which is best for you. Tofu, soy nuts, tempeh, and soy milk are good sources of soy.
Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) -- Like soy, flaxseed, and flaxseed oil contain plant-based estrogens (phytoestrogens) called lignans that may help reduce symptoms of menopause. One study found that women who took phytoestrogens from both soy and flaxseed reduced hot flashes and vaginal dryness, although there was also a significant improvement in symptoms among women who took placebo. As with soy, researchers aren't sure whether flaxseed supplements would also increase risk of breast cancer after menopause, just as supplemental estrogen does. More studies are needed; in the meantime, it may be better to include flaxseed in your diet instead of taking supplements; talk to your doctor to see which is best for you. Flaxseed also contains alpha-linolenic acid, which the body converts into omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are good for heart health.
Calcium -- As estrogen levels decline with menopause, women are at risk for osteoporosis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and North American Menopause Society (NAMS) recommend that postmenopausal women get 1,000 - 1,500 mg of elemental calcium per day through diet and supplement to keep bones strong. Foods rich in calcium include low-fat dairy, green leafy vegetables, black strap molasses, almonds, and dried beans. It can be difficult to get enough calcium through your diet, so you may need to take a supplement. It is important to read the label to see how much elemental calcium a supplement contains (how much calcium your body can actually use). There are several kinds of calcium supplements. Calcium citrate seems to be more easily absorbed by the body, but it has less elemental calcium than calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate, however, requires an acid environment to be absorbed, so is best taken with a glass of orange juice. No matter which form of calcium you take, your body can't absorb more than 500 mg at a time, so you may have to take more than one dose.
Vitamin D -- Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. Levels of vitamin D can decline as you get older, so ask your doctor whether you need a supplement. Sources of this vitamin include sunlight, fatty fish, and low-fat dairy fortified with vitamin D. The recommended dietary intake for vitamin D is currently 400 IU per day for women between the ages of 50 and 70 years and 600 IU for those older than age 70.
Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) -- Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. Women who are at greater risk of heart disease after menopause may want to ask their doctor whether they should take a fish oil supplement or simply increase the amount of fish they eat. The American Heart Association recommends having at least two servings of fish per week.

Herbs

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care practitioner. Treatments used to relieve menopause symptoms vary in their effectiveness from woman to woman. As with prescription medication taken to relieve menopause symptoms, some women may find relief with complementary therapies while others may not.

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa or Actaea racemosa, 20 mg two times per day) -- Black cohosh is used to relieve symptoms of menopause including hot flashes, irritability, mood swings, and feelings of depression. Some of the evidence is mixed, but a number of studies show that it is effective. Researchers aren't sure exactly how much black cohosh works like estrogen in the body. It appears to provide the benefits of estrogen (reducing hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and possibly protecting against osteoporosis) without the negative effects. But until more is known, women who are at risk of hormone related cancers (such as breast cancer) should only take black cohosh under a doctor’s strict supervision.

The flowing herbs are also sometimes suggested to relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings, although evidence is mixed or lacking. Like soy, they may contain plant-based estrogens (phytoestrogens) that could act like estrogen in the body and possibly raise the risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor before taking these herbs:

Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis)
Red clover (Trifolium pratense)
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Kudzu (Pueraria lobata)

In the past, wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) has sometimes been mentioned as a treatment for menopausal symptoms, because hormones including progesterone were manufactured from wild yam in the 1960s. However, studies show that the body is not able to convert wild yam into progesterone, so it is not likely to help relieve any symptoms of menopause.

Acupuncture

Several studies show acupuncture may help many women with symptoms of menopause, particularly with hot flashes and mood changes.

Homeopathy

Although few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following remedies for the treatment of menopause based on their knowledge and experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. A constitutional type is defined as a person's physical, emotional, and psychological makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment for each individual.

Lachesis -- hot flashes, irritability
Sepia -- low energy, mood swings, vaginal dryness, irritability
Pulsatilla -- mood swings, insomnia
Sulfur -- hot flashes, irritability
Lycopodium -- bloating, flatulence, pain with intercourse
Argentum nitricum -- anxiety, nervousness, irritability, insomnia
Calcarea phosphorica -- improves bone density
Belladonna -- hot flashes, especially if they begin abruptly

Mind-Body Medicine

Some studies suggest that learning to relax the body (through slow, deep breathing) may reduce the intensity of hot flashes.

Other Considerations

Prognosis and Complications

As estrogen levels decline during menopause, a woman's risk of developing the following medical conditions may increase:

Cardiovascular disease
Osteoporosis
Alzheimer's disease
Macular degeneration (a serious eye disorder and the leading cause of blindness in the Western world)
Glaucoma
Colon cancer

Menopause is part of the natural aging process for all women. There are many therapies available, however, to help ease the symptoms and reduce health risks associated with menopause. Selecting the right treatment for you can minimize discomfort and maximize the opportunities for a vital, healthy, satisfying life during and after menopause.

Supporting Research

Bai W, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH, Wang S, Zheng S, Liu J, Zhang Z, et al. Efficacy and tolerability of a medicinal product containing an isopropanolic black cohosh extract in Chinese women with menopausal symptoms: a randomized, double blind, parallel-controlled study versus tibolone. Maturitas. 2007 Sep 20;58(1):31-41.

Briese V, Stammwitz U, Friede M, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH. Black cohosh with or without St. John's wort for symptom-specific climacteric treatment -- results of a large-scale, controlled, observational study. Maturitas. 2007 Aug 20;57(4):405-14.

Chandeying V, Sangthawan M. Efficacy comparison of Pueraria mirifica (PM) against conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) with/without medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in the treatment of climacteric symptoms in perimenopausal women: phase III study. J Med Assoc Thai. 2007 Sep;90(9):1720-6.

Green J, Denham A, Ingram J, Hawkey S, Greenwood R. Treatment of menopausal symptoms by qualified herbal practitioners: a prospective, randomized controlled trial. Fam Pract. 2007 Oct;24(5):468-74.

Hidalgo LA, Chedraui PA, Morocho N, et al. The effect of red clover isoflavones on menopausal symptoms, lipids and vaginal cytology in menopausal women: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2005;21:257-264.

Huang MI, Nir Y, Chen B, et al. A randomized controlled pilot study of acupuncture for postmenopausal hot flashes: effect on nocturnal hot flashes and sleep quality. Fertil Steril. 2006;86:700-710.

Kreijkamp-Kaspers S, Kok L, Grobbee DE, et al. Effect of soy protein containing isoflavones on cognitive function, bone mineral density, and plasma lipids in postmenopausal women. JAMA. 2004;292:65-74.

Osmers R, Friede M, Liske E, et al. Efficacy and safety of isopropanolic black cohosh extract for climacteric symptoms. Obstet Gynecol. 2005;105:1074-1083.

Pockaj BA, Gallagher JG, Loprinzi CL, et al. Phase III Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial of Black Cohosh in the Management of Hot Flashes: NCCTG Trial N01CC1. J Clin Oncol. 2006;24:2836-2841.

Poulsen RC, Moughan PJ, Kruger MC. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and the regulation of bone metabolism. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2007 Nov;232(10):1275-88. Review.

Pruthi S, Thompson SL, Novotny PJ, Barton DL, Kottschade LA, Tan AD, et al. Pilot evaluation of flaxseed for the management of hot flashes. J Soc Integr Oncol. 2007 Summer;5(3):106-12.

Robien K, Cutler GJ, Lazovich D. Vitamin D intake and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women: the Iowa Women's Health Study. Cancer Causes Control. 2007 Sep;18(7):775-82.

Secreto G, Chiechi LM, Amadori A, et al. Soy isoflavones and melatonin for the relief of climacteric symptoms: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized study. Maturitas. 2004;47:11-20.

Somjen D, Knoll E, Vaya J, et al. Estrogen-like activity of licorice root constituents: glabridin and glabrene, in vascular tissues in vitro and in vivo. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2004;91:147-155.

Spangler L, Newton KM, Grothaus LC, Reed SD, Ehrlich K, LaCroix AZ. The effects of black cohosh therapies on lipids, fibrinogen, glucose and insulin. Maturitas. 2007 Jun 20;57(2):195-204.

Uebelhack R, Blohmer JU, Graubaum HJ, et al. Black cohosh and St. John's wort for climacteric complaints: a randomized trial. Obstet Gynecol. 2006;107:247-255.

Wuttke W, Jarry H, Seidlová-Wuttke D. Isoflavones--safe food additives or dangerous drugs? Ageing Res Rev. 2007 Aug;6(2):150-88.

Zaborowska E, Brynhildsen J, Damberg S, et al. Effects of acupuncture, applied relaxation, estrogens, and placebo on hot flushes in postmenopausal women: an analysis of two prospective, parallel, randomized studies. Climacteric. 2007;10:38-45.

Review Date:
12/28/2007
Reviewed By:
Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

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Menopause

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:52:50 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Symptoms
Signs and tests
Treatment
Complications
Calling your health care provider
Prevention
References

Illustrations

Menopause

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Menopause is the transition period in a woman's life when her ovaries stop producing eggs, her body produces less estrogen and progesterone, and menstruation becomes less frequent, eventually stopping altogether.

Alternative Names

Perimenopause; Postmenopause

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Menopause is a natural event that normally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

Once menopause is complete (called postmenopause), you can no longer become pregnant.

The symptoms of menopause are caused by changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. As the ovaries become less functional, they produce less of these hormones and the body responds accordingly. The specific symptoms you experience and how significant (mild, moderate, or severe) varies from woman to woman.

In some women, menstrual flow comes to a sudden halt. More commonly, it tapers off. During this time, your menstrual periods generally become either more closely or more widely spaced. This irregularity may last for 1 to 3 years before menstruation finally ends completely.

A gradual decrease of estrogen generally allows your body to slowly adjust to the hormonal changes. When estrogen drops suddenly, as is seen when the ovaries are removed surgically (called surgical menopause), symptoms can be more severe.

Because hormone levels fall, changes occur in the entire female reproductive system. The vaginal walls become less elastic and thinner. The vagina becomes shorter. Lubricating secretions from the vagina become watery. The outside genital tissue decreases. This is called atrophy of the labia.

Symptoms

The potential symptoms include:

Decreased sex drive
Hot flashes and skin flushing
Insomnia
Irregular menstrual periods
Mood swings including irritability, depression, and anxiety
Night sweats
Spotting of blood in between periods
Urinary tract infections
Vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse
Vaginal infections

In addition, the long-term effects of menopause include:

Bone loss and eventual osteoporosis
Changes in cholesterol levels and greater risk of heart disease

Signs and tests

Blood and urine tests can be used to measure hormone levels that may indicate when a woman is close to menopause or has already gone through menopause. Examples of these tests include:

A pelvic exam may indicate changes in the vaginal lining caused by declining estrogen levels. The doctor may perform a bone density test to screen for low bone density levels that occur with osteoporosis.

Treatment

Menopause is a natural process. Treatment with hormones may be helpful if you experience debilitating symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal dryness.

Discuss the decision to take hormones thoroughly with your doctor, weighing your risks against any possible benefits. Pay careful attention to the many options currently available to you that do not involve taking hormones.

If you have a uterus and decide to take estrogen, you must also take progesterone to prevent endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus). If you do not have a uterus, progesterone is not necessary.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

For years, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was the main treatment for menopause symptoms. Many physicians believed that HRT was not only good for reducing menopausal symptoms, but also reduced the risk of heart disease and bone fractures from osteoporosis. However, the results of a major study called the Women's Health Initiative has led physicians to change their recommendations.

In fact, this important study was stopped early because the health risks outweighed the benefits. Women taking the hormones did see some benefits. But they had a greatly increased risk for breast cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots.

If your symptoms are severe, you may still want to consider HRT for short-term use (2-4 years) to reduce vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and other symptoms.

To reduce the risks of estrogen replacement therapy and still gain the benefits of the treatment, your doctor may recommend:

Using estrogen/progesterone regimens that do not contain the form of progesterone used in the study
Using a lower dose of estrogen or a different estrogen preparation (for instance, a vaginal cream rather than a pill)
Having frequent and regular pelvic exams and Pap smears to detect problems as early as possible
Having frequent and regular physical exams, including breast exams and mammograms

ALTERNATIVES TO HRT

The good news is that you can take many steps to reduce your symptoms without taking hormones:

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
Dress lightly and in layers
Eat soy foods
Perform Kegel exercises daily to strengthen the muscles of your vagina and pelvis
Practice slow, deep breathing whenever a hot flash starts to come on (try taking six breaths per minute)
Remain sexually active to preserve the elasticity of your vagina
See an acupuncturist
Use relaxation techniques like yoga, tai chi, or meditation
Use water-based lubricants during sexual intercourse

There are also some medications available to help with mood swings, hot flashes, and other symptoms. These include low doses of antidepressants such as paroxetine (Paxil), venlafaxine (Effexor), bupropion (Wellbutrin), and fluoxetine (Prozac), or clonidine, which is normally used to control high blood pressure.

Complications

Estrogen is responsible for the buildup of the lining of the uterine cavity. During the reproductive years, this buildup is shed (menstruation). This usually happens about once a month.

The menopausal decrease in estrogen prevents this buildup from occurring. However, hormones produced by the adrenal glands are converted to estrogen, and sometimes this will cause postmenopausal bleeding.

This bleeding is often nothing to worry about, but because it may also be an early indication of other problems, including cancer, your physician should always check any postmenopausal bleeding.

Decreased estrogen levels are also associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and possibly an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if:

You are spotting blood between periods
You have had 12 consecutive months with no period and suddenly vaginal bleeding begins again

Prevention

Menopause is a natural and expected part of a woman's development and does not need to be prevented. However, there are ways to reduce or eliminate some of the symptoms that accompany menopause.

You can reduce your risk of long-term problems like osteoporosis and heart disease in the following ways:

Control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors for heart disease.
Do NOT smoke -- cigarette use can cause early menopause.
Eat a low-fat diet.
Exercise regularly, including doing resistance exercises, to strengthen your bones.
If you show early signs of bone loss, talk to your doctor about medications that can help stop further weakening.
Take calcium and vitamin D.

References

Weismiller D. The perimenopause and menopause experience: an overview. Clin Fam Practice. 2002; 4(1).

Stenchever, MA. Comprehensive Gynecology, 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby, Inc.; 2001:1217-1250.

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Hormone therapy for the prevention of chronic conditions in postmenopausal women: recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Ann Intern Med. 2005;142:855-860.

North American Menopause Society. Estrogen and progestogen use in peri- and postmenopausal women: March 2007 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2007;14:168-182.

Review Date: 11/9/2007

Reviewed By: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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Menopause

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:26:29 -0700

Back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Menopause is the transition in a woman's life when the ovaries stop releasing eggs, menstrual activity decreases and eventually ceases, and the body decreases the production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.

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Would You Delay Having Babies If You Knew You Could?

babysugar — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:04:47 -0800

While women may fret over recent findings that only 12 percent of a woman's eggs are left at the age of 30 and three percent at 40, a new test may help them decide when to start trying to conceive.

Australian researchers have developed a simple hormone test, called the "egg timer," to detect the number of eggs in the ovaries. The test, which will only cost $58, will let women know if their egg supply is dwindling at unusually fast rates and if they are at risk for premature menopause. According to the developers behind the test, it will be particularly helpful for those women who have gone through cancer treatments or ovarian surgeries, helping them plan fertility treatments.

The groundbreaking test could help younger women make different decisions about when they want to start a family. If you knew your egg supply was healthy, would you delay having babies until you were older?