![]() ![]() Menopausal women continue to have low levels of circulating estrogens, principally from peripheral aromatization of ovarian and adrenal androgens. Androgen production from the ovary continues beyond the menopausal transition because of sparing of the stromal compartment. The ovary, therefore, is no longer able to respond to the pituitary hormones, that is, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), and ovarian estrogen and progesterone production cease. At the level of the ovary, there is a depletion of ovarian follicles. It may be idiopathic or associated with toxic exposure, chromosomal abnormality, or autoimmune disorder.Īlthough menopause is associated with changes in the hypothalamic and pituitary hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, menopause is not a central event, but rather a primary ovarian failure. Premature ovarian failure is defined as menopause before the age of 40 years. Women who have had surgery on their ovaries, or have had a hysterectomy, despite retention of their ovaries, may also experience early menopause. Factors that are toxic to the ovary often result in an earlier age of menopause for example, women who smoke experience an earlier menopause, etc. The age at menopause appears to be genetically determined and is unaffected by race, socioeconomic status, age at menarche, or number of prior ovulations. Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting in the loss of ovarian follicle development. ![]()
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