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Menopause

Diminishing hormone levels

 

The «change of life», or menopause, often goes hand in hand with noticeable physical symptoms. This is a natural, but individual, process: every woman experiences the menopause differently. Even though declining hormone production is quite normal and natural, a long-term hormone deficiency may have a negative impact on overall health, triggering other associated problems.

Hot flushes and outbreaks of sweating are usually the first signs of diminishing hormone levels. There will also be an increased risk of calcification of the blood vessels and bone loss due to falling levels of oestrogen, the female sex hormone which provides a degree of natural protection. But there are ways to compensate for these hormone deficiencies. Prompt treatment can definitely help improve the quality of your life.

 

Hormone profile: the most important parameters

It is advisable to check your hormone levels before opting for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). A hormone profile aids diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Various laboratory tests provide useful information – the following parameters are amongst the most important:

  • Oestradiol, important female sex hormone: provides an indication of menopausal status.
  • Progesterone acts on the endometrium, stabilises the bones and combats ageing of the skin. A deficiency may also lead to emotional symptoms.
  • Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone.
  • DHEA-S plays an important role in the control and progression of the ageing process.
  • LH and FSH are responsible for the production of sex hormones. They are key control parameters for hormonereplacement therapy during the menopause.
  • TSH stimulates the production of thyroid hormone. An undetected underactive thyroid gland and associated lack of thyroid hormone can lead to tiredness and a lack of energy.

 

Enjoy your free time!

The menopause brings physical and possibly also emotional change, but it also heralds a new stage of life with many positive aspects. You are embarking on a new phase in your life with more time to make good use of all the experience you have gained. Put yourself first – now is the time to take care of yourself and your body! Eat a balanced diet, get plenty of exercise and be receptive to what your body is trying to tell you.