Menopause

2.3. Hormone changes

Karin

"For the last years, my periods were very light, but they came more often. Sometimes they were longer, and sometimes they only went for two days."

The production of hormones is one part of the menstrual cycle. Until the release of the egg, the ripe follicle increases the amount of oestrogen. After the egg is released, the amount of progesterone climbs. Both of these hormones do not only prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy. They also have an effect on the skin and mucus membranes for example [13].

During the menopause the overall level of oestrogen gradually reduces. This changes the balance between oestrogens and other hormones. The body reacts to the reduction in oestrogen by producing more of another type of hormone, called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) [14], [15].

Even though these changes are typical for the menopause, that does not mean that testing the hormone levels can provide information about how to handle the menopause. This is because hormone levels around the time of ending menstruation can swing about. Ovary function tests also cannot determine for certain whether or not the menopause is underway [8].

Susanne

"With these irregular periods at the beginning, it was clear to me how women could get pregnant at that age."

Even when periods are irregular or far apart, women can still get pregnant. Low or changing hormone levels do not protect against unwanted pregnancy [8], [10], [14]. Hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms also does not prevent pregnancy.

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