Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life characterised by hormonal changes that can have significant effects on physical and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore the roles of three essential hormones—oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—in menopause and how they impact women’s health during this transition.
Oestrogen: Every organ in a woman’s body has oestrogen receptors, highlighting the crucial role of oestrogen in various bodily functions. During perimenopause and menopause, oestrogen levels fluctuate, leading to a wide range of symptoms such as mood swings, hot flushes, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and affect overall quality of life.
Progesterone: While progesterone often takes a backseat in discussions about menopause, it plays a vital role in managing symptoms and maintaining overall health, especially for women undergoing menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) who have a uterus. Progesterone helps balance oestrogen levels, alleviates symptoms such as but certainly not limited to hot flushes, disturbed sleep and mood swings, and supports bone health by working in conjunction with oestrogen to maintain bone density. Additionally, progesterone has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help with anxiety and promote better sleep.
Testosterone: Although women produce significantly less testosterone than men, it still plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Testosterone supports brain function, metabolism, bladder and vaginal health, bone and muscle health, and contributes to overall well-being and energy levels, including sex drive. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, starting in our 30s and plateauing around peri/menopause. Certain medical interventions like ovary removal or cancer treatments can cause a sudden drop in testosterone levels, leading to significant impacts on health. Currently, testosterone prescription for women during menopause is typically reserved for those experiencing Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), a complex issue with multifaceted aspects. Your doctor may consider testosterone supplementation if you continue to experience these symptoms despite being on menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). This, like all symptom treatments for perimenopause and menopause symptoms, is a joint decision between the woman and her trusted menopause specialist/GP based on evidence and weighing the benefits vs risks and what is right for the individual.
Navigating menopause can be challenging, but understanding the roles of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can help women make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Open discussions with healthcare professionals are crucial in exploring treatment options tailored to individual needs. By prioritizing hormone balance and holistic approaches to menopause management, women can better navigate this transformative stage of life with confidence and resilience.
