Which hormone changes are significant during menopause?

During menopause, significant hormonal changes occur as a woman transitions from her reproductive years to a stage where menstruation ceases. One of the hallmark aspects of menopause is the decrease in both estrogen and progesterone levels.

Estrogen, which is primarily responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining various bodily functions, significantly declines during menopause. This reduction is what contributes to many of the symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.

Additionally, progesterone, which plays a key role in maintaining pregnancy and regulating the menstrual cycle, also experiences a decline. The decrease in progesterone often results in irregular menstrual cycles leading up to menopause and contributes to changes in other bodily systems, such as bone density and mood regulation.

Understanding that both estrogen and progesterone decrease during menopause is essential for recognizing how these hormonal changes can affect a woman's overall health and well-being during this transition. This knowledge can inform fitness and wellness programs aimed at addressing the specific needs of women going through menopause.