Menopause relationship between aging and reproductive health

1. MENOPAUSE
MEMBERS ;
Nakasolo Sania
Wambatsu Ivan
Kato Joel Kyambadde
Atwine Didas

2. Objectives;
By the end this session, learners should be able to;
1. Define the term menopause
2. Outline the physiological characteristics of menopause
3. Explain the physical changes during premenopausal period.

3. Dfn.
Menopause is a natural biological transition in a woman's life, marking
the end of her reproductive years.
• It occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and releasing the
hormones estrogen and progesterone. This typically happens
between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can vary depending on
individual factors.

4. Stages of Menopause:
• Perimenopause: The years leading up to menopause, marked by
irregular periods and fluctuating hormones. This can last several
years.
• Menopause: Defined as a full year without a menstrual period.
• Postmenopause: The years after menopause.

5. Physiological characteristics of menopause
• The physiological characteristics of menopause are primarily driven
by the gradual decline in estrogen and progesterone production by
the ovaries. This decline triggers a cascade of changes throughout the
body, leading to the various symptoms associated with menopause.
Here's a breakdown of some key physiological characteristics:

6. Ctn.
• Hormonal changes:
• Estrogen: The decrease in estrogen is the primary driver of most
menopausal symptoms. It affects various systems, including:
• Reproductive system: Estrogen stimulates the development and
maturation of eggs and prepares the uterus for pregnancy. Its decline
leads to irregular periods, eventually stopping them altogether.
• Urogenital system: Estrogen helps maintain the health and elasticity
of vaginal tissues. Reduced estrogen leads to vaginal dryness,
thinning, and decreased lubrication, contributing to discomfort and
urinary tract infections.

7. Ctn.
• Cardiovascular system: Estrogen has beneficial effects on
cholesterol levels and blood vessel health. Its decline can
increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Skeletal system: Estrogen helps maintain bone density. Its
decline increases the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that
weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures.
• Central nervous system: Estrogen influences mood, sleep,
and cognitive function. Fluctuations in estrogen can
contribute to mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, and memory
problems.

8. Ctn.
• Progesterone: While its decline is less pronounced than estrogen,
progesterone also plays a role in regulating menstrual cycles and
supporting pregnancy. Reduced progesterone can contribute to irregular
bleeding and mood changes.
• Other physiological changes:
• Vasomotor symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, and chills are caused
by changes in blood vessel regulation due to fluctuating hormones.
• Metabolic changes: Weight gain, altered body fat distribution, and
changes in cholesterol levels can occur due to hormonal shifts and
decreased metabolism.

9. Ctn.
• Skin and hair changes: Decreased estrogen can lead to drier
skin, wrinkles, and hair thinning.
• Sleep disturbances: Hot flashes, night sweats, and hormonal
fluctuations can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to
insomnia.
• Increased risk of chronic diseases: Menopause is associated
with an increased risk of certain chronic diseases like heart
disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and breast cancer.

10. Physical changes during premenopausal period
• The premenopausal period, also known as perimenopause, is the
transitional phase leading up to menopause, when your body begins
to wind down its reproductive cycle. This naturally occurring decrease
in hormone production, primarily estrogen, brings about a range of
physical changes that vary from woman to woman. Here's an
overview of some of the most common:
• Changes in your menstrual cycle:
• Irregularity: This is the most telltale sign, with periods becoming
longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter than usual. You might skip periods
altogether at times.
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) fluctuations: PMS symptoms like
cramps, bloating, and mood swings might intensify or change

11. Other physical changes:
• Hot flashes and night sweats: These sudden surges of heat, often
accompanied by sweating, are triggered by fluctuating hormones and
can be quite bothersome.
• Vaginal dryness: Due to reduced estrogen levels, the vaginal tissues
become thinner and drier, leading to discomfort during sex or other
activities.
• Breast changes: You might experience tenderness, lumpiness, or
changes in size or shape of your breasts.

12. Ctn.
• Weight gain: This is not inevitable, but hormonal shifts can affect
metabolism and make it harder to maintain weight.
• Changes in sleep patterns: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or
experiencing interrupted sleep due to hot flashes or night sweats are
common.
• Skin and hair changes: You might notice drier skin, thinning hair, or hair
loss on the scalp.
• Changes in mood and cognition: Some women experience mood swings,
irritability, anxiety, or difficulty concentrating.

13. Thank you for
listening