Effects of progestogens on serum lipids in the post-menopause

Measurement of serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids was undertaken in patients with a natural menopause or following oöphorectomy who received cyclical oestrogen regimens for six consecutive months. The regimen employed was either a 'high' or 'low' dose of equine conjugated oestrogens, piperazine oestrone sulphate or oestradiol valerate. After six months a change was made to cyclical sequential oestrogen/progestogen regimens for varying periods. Patients with a natural menopause given either 'high' or 'low' dose regimens showed no significant changes in serum cholesterol, triglyceride or phospholipid levels compared to baseline values. However, the serum cholesterol levels of the oöphorectomized subjects were significantly elevated in comparison with the perimenopausal group. The addition of progestogen to the oestrogen did not cause any significant alterations.