ABSTRACT
The changes in menstrual cycles that lead to menopause begin with alterations in estrogen and progesterone which decrease in concentration, and the aging ovaries’ ability to produce eggs. Inhibin is a hormone produced by ovarian cells and when its levels fall as the ovaries’ ability to produce hormone is diminished, it provides feedback to the pituitary to regulate follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and may be responsible for the increase in FSH seen in menopause. The most classic symptom associated with menopause or perimenopause is the hot flash or flush. Estrogen is important in maintaining vaginal lubrication, and following menopause, loss of tissue strength and lubrication can lead to burning, itching, bleeding, and even painful intercourse. Women who stay on estrogen from the menopausal years and beyond maintain the bone density they had at the time they began therapy, as estrogen is an anti-resoptive agent. Women who enjoyed their sex lives prior to menopause continue to enjoy and maintain their sexuality.
