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Published on: August 13, 2019
Effect of perimenopause on calcium absorption: a longitudinal study
J M Wishart1, F Scopacasa, M Horowitz
1Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia.
Summary
Menopause is linked to decreased calcium absorption, with changes in calcitriol levels only partially explaining this decline. This impacts bone health during the menopausal transition.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Women's Health
Background:
- Menopause is associated with increased calcium requirements.
- Reduced intestinal calcium absorption may contribute to this increased need.
- The role of calcitriol in menopausal changes in calcium absorption requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of menopause on intestinal calcium absorption.
- To examine the relationship between changes in calcium absorption and serum calcitriol levels during the menopausal transition.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 72 premenopausal women.
- Measurement of radiocalcium absorption and serum calcitriol at baseline and 18 months.
- Assessment of menopausal status using menstrual history and serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Main Results:
- Intestinal calcium absorption significantly decreased from 0.72/h to 0.64/h (p = 0.003) 18 months later.
- Serum calcitriol levels also declined from 124 pmol/l to 111 pmol/l (p = 0.007).
- The decrease in calcium absorption was more pronounced in women experiencing irregular menses or elevated FSH levels, and remained significant after adjusting for calcitriol changes.
Conclusions:
- The perimenopause is associated with a significant reduction in intestinal calcium absorption.
- This decline in calcium absorption is only partially explained by decreased calcitriol levels.
- These findings highlight potential mechanisms affecting calcium balance during the menopausal transition.
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