Menopause
Alternate Names : Perimenopause, Postmenopause
 See all Pictures & Images
Menopause Complications
Estrogen is responsible for the buildup of the lining of the uterine cavity. During the reproductive years, this buildup occurs and then is shed (menstruation). This usually happens about a once a month.
The menopausal decrease in estrogen prevents this buildup from occurring. However, hormones produced by the adrenal glands are converted to estrogen, and sometimes this will cause postmenopausal bleeding.
This is often nothing to worry about, but because postmenopausal bleeding may also be an early indication of other problems, including cancer, a physician should always check any postmenopausal bleeding.
Decreased estrogen levels are also associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and possibly an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
|
