The effects of subcutaneous hormone implants during climacteric

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Menopause Management

Background:

• Climacteric symptoms significantly impact women's quality of life.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment for menopausal symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined oestradiol and testosterone implants for climacteric symptom management.
• To investigate hormonal profiles and the cause of symptom recurrence.

Main Methods:

• 120 women received 469 hormone implants (oestradiol 50 mg, testosterone 100 mg) over four years.
• Oral progestogen was administered to women with a uterus to prevent endometrial hyperplasia.
• Serum hormone levels (oestrone, oestradiol, LH, FSH, testosterone) were monitored.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in hot flushes (100%), depression (99%), and loss of libido (92%).
• High patient acceptability with minimal side effects and complications.
• Recurrent symptoms correlated with hormonal shifts within normal reproductive ranges, not absolute hypoestrogenism.

Conclusions:

• Combined oestradiol and testosterone implants are effective for treating climacteric symptoms.
• Symptom recurrence is likely due to dynamic hormonal fluctuations rather than absolute deficiency.