Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 21, 2026
A Method to Study the Impact of Chemically-induced Ovarian Failure on Exercise Capacity and Cardiac Adaptation in Mice
Published on: April 7, 2014
The menopause transition
Nanette Santoro1, Judi Lee Chervenak
1Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Mazer 316, Bronx, NY 10461, USA. glicktoro@aol.com
Abstract:
The menopause transition is a period of life during which a series of dynamic changes in physiology are taking place. There seems to be a transient increase in symptoms of many types, which are occasionally severe. There is a disproportionate burden of morbidity that seems to accrue to women of high body mass index and low socioeconomic status. Moreover, there are ethnic differences in hormones and symptoms that may reflect either basic biologic variation in hormone receptors and actions or the different social milieu that women in different ethnic groups experience. Current medical management of the perimenopause should include screen-ing for general health maintenance, avoidance of weight gain, and a holistic approach to symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Menopause
01:22Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
01:19The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
01:18Menses Phase
When fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum deteriorates, causing a significant drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This hormonal decrease triggers the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterine...
01:30Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle. At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
01:19Secretory Phase
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...