What is Menopause?

Despite being a universal experience, menopause remains mystified among women of all ages. Let’s break down what it really means.

Summary

Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At this point, the ovaries no longer produce sufficient amounts of estrogen to provide the body. The menopause transition contains three milestones:

  • Perimenopause→ The ovaries begin to slow estrogen production, and symptoms are likely.

  • Menopause → The ovaries no longer release eggs, and 12 months have passed without a period.

  • Postmenopause → Any time after the 12-month menopausal threshold is now postmenopause.

(Cleveland Clinic, 2024)

Estrogen

Estrogen is a reproductive hormone present in both sexes but predominant in women. There are three forms of estrogen: estradiol in fertility, estriol in pregnancy, and estrone post-menopause. Until menopause, estrogen is responsible for functioning the female reproductive system.

  • Puberty → Levels rise to grow the breasts, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, and vagina.

  • Menstruation → Resets reproductive cycle and develops uterine lining to prepare for pregnancy.

  • Fertility → Levels reach a maximum for ovulation to promote sperm fertilization and pregnancy.

  • Sexual Health → Keeps vaginal walls elastic to reduce pain during intercourse.

  • Pregnancy → Prepares for labor via fetal growth, placental blood flow, and mammary gland development.

(Cleveland Clinic 2022)

(Facts about Estrogen)

Symptom Manifestation

(Female Reproductive Health, 2024)

Beyond reproduction however, estrogen plays a significant role in bodily homeostasis. For instance:

  • Cognition → Boosts neurotransmittion, influences mood and focus, regulates serotonin and dopamine production, sustains circulation, and promotes neuroplasticity.

  • Circulation → Regulates cholesterol and keeps blood vessels flexible.

  • Bone Strength → Regulates bone regeneration sustain bone density.

  • Skin Elasticity → Promotes collagen and oil production.

  • Immunity → Balances immune response using both anti-inflammatory and defensive mechanisms.

  • Metabolism → Influences food processing, nutrient absorbtion, and microbiome diversity.

  • Muscle Strength → Improves muscle mass and joint lubrication.

(Haver, 2022)

Estrogen is a versitle resource for the body; consequently, when this supply drops during menopause, it is visible in all systems.

(HealthCareOnTime, 2023)

Symptoms at a Glance

Symptoms of menopause refer to the body’s response to a substantial lack of estradiol. Common symptoms include:

  • Irregular periods

  • Hot flashes

  • Night sweats

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Insomnia

  • Depression

  • Breast tenderness

  • Hair loss

(Cleveland Clinic, 2024)

Estrogen has a large functional range, and its depletion has distinct symptoms. However, these manifestations are not unique to menopause.