Is there a relationship between olfactory dysfunction and duration of menopause?

The aim of this study is to compare the odour threshold and odour identification tests of women of reproductive age and postmenopausal period and to examine the relationship between the duration of menopause and olfactory dysfunction.

Eighty women of reproductive age and in the postmenopausal period were included in this prospective study. These were divided into four groups of 20 women each: Group 1, reproductive period; Group 2, postmenopausal period (0-5 years); Group 3, postmenopausal period (6-10 years; and Group 4, postmenopausal period (more than 10 years). All the women enrolled underwent complete ear, nose, and throat examinations, followed by odour threshold test and odour identification test. The results were then compared among the groups.

There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of age, odour threshold test and odour identification test (p < 0.001, p = 0.016, and p < 0.001, respectively). Age adjusted results indicated that there were no statistically significant difference in odour threshold test scores between groups compared to the reference group 1. However, women in group 3 were 90% less likely to have higher odour ıdentification test scores compared to women in group 1 [OR (95% CI): 0.10 (0.01-0.73); p = 0.025].

Olfactory dysfunction is seen in the postmenopausal period. However, this is correlated with age. Olfactory dysfunction in the postmenopausal period appears to be the result of aging together with hormonal changes.