Menopausal+risks

o Occurs btwn. 48-55 yrs. o Results fr. gradual cessation of ovarian function: including decreased levels of estrogen · Estrogen Function: -Sexual maturation -Ovulation -Development and maintenance of female accessory organs -Cell division in breasts and endometrium -Maintaining skin and blood vessels -Decreasing bone resorption -Increased HDL levels, decreased LDL and cholesterol -Moving fluid into tissues o A woman who has not menstruated for a full year or has an FSH level greater than 30 mIU/ML is considered menopausal. o Even though estrogen also comes fr. adrenal cortex, these amounts are insufficient to maintain the 2ndary sexual characteristics the same way as the ovarian estrogens. o ** Results: ** · Decrease in: breast tissue, body hair, skin elasticity, and subcutaneous fat · Ovaries & uterus decrease in size · Cervix & vagina become pale and friable -Problems that arise fr. Urogenital atrophy: -Vaginal dryness -Urinary stress incontinence -Urgency -Nocturia -Vaginitis -UTI · Vasomotor instability 2ndary to decrease in estrogens and INCREASE in other hormones: FSH, LH, GnRH, dehydroepiandrosterone, and androstenedione à this instability gives rise to hot flashes, palpitations, dizziness, and headaches as the blood vessels dilate. Also: insomnia, frequent awakening due to vasomotor symptoms can occur à irritability, anxiety, depression may result. o ** Consequences of Long-Term Estrogen Deprivation ** · Osteoporosis due to an imbalance in bone remodeling à bone resorption occurs at a faster rate than bone formation · Increased risk of cardiovascular disease (athersclerosis is accelerated) à LEADING cause of DEATH in women after menopause.
 * Identify the physiological changes occurring with menopause that increase health risks for post menopausal women. **
 * -Menopause **