Menopause

Menopause is a natural, age-related transition marked by the decline in ovarian function and permanent cessation of menstruation, usually between ages 45 and 55. This leads to reduced estrogen and progesterone, affecting multiple body systems. Hormonal withdrawal causes symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), mood changes, sleep issues, cognitive decline, and musculoskeletal discomfort. Estrogen loss also raises risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD), osteoporosis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Hormone therapy (HT) is the gold standard for moderate-to-severe symptoms, especially vasomotor and urogenital. When started in healthy women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset, HT may offer added benefits such as better bone health, cognitive support, and CVD protection. A personalized, risk-based approach is crucial, tailoring HT type, dose, and delivery to individual needs. While not for disease prevention alone, appropriate HT use improves quality of life and promotes healthy aging.