Menopause

Definition

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and results in significant hormonal changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Menopause leads to decreased estrogen levels, which can affect the urogenital tract's normal microbiota.
2. The reduction in estrogen during menopause increases susceptibility to urogenital infections such as UTIs and bacterial vaginosis.
3. Postmenopausal women often experience changes in vaginal pH, making the environment less acidic and more prone to pathogenic bacteria growth.
4. Menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and atrophy can contribute to an increased risk of infections.
5. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes help restore urogenital health by maintaining a more favorable microbial environment.

Review Questions

• How does menopause affect the normal microbiota of the urogenital tract?
• What are some common urogenital infections that postmenopausal women are more susceptible to?
• In what ways can hormone replacement therapy impact the microbiota of postmenopausal women?

Related terms

Estrogen:

A primary female sex hormone involved in regulating the reproductive system.

Urogenital Infections: Infections that occur within the urinary or genital tracts.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A treatment involving estrogen or progesterone supplements to alleviate menopausal symptoms.