Menopause (New York, N.Y.)[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Investigating the relationship between menopausal symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Nacar G, Hazar S, Hatun B
Menopause · 2026 Apr · PMID 41252270 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study examined the relationship between menopause symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms. METHODS: The descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 212 women aged 45-55 who actively use the in...
OBJECTIVE: This study examined the relationship between menopause symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms. METHODS: The descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 212 women aged 45-55 who actively use the internet and social media (WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, etc.). The Personal Information Form, Menopause Rating Scale, and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale were used to collect research data. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the research data. RESULTS: A statistically significant and positive relationship was found between gastrointestinal and menopause symptoms ( r =0.599, P =0.001). It was found that for each point increase in the menopause symptom scale, the score in the gastrointestinal symptoms scale was 1.02 points higher on average (B=1.02, P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The study found a relationship between menopause symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms. This shows that gastrointestinal symptoms should be considered in the health assessment of women in menopause.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder and menopause: a scoping review.
Albanese CM, Antaya G, Gordon JL
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41249024 · Full text
IMPORTANCE AND OBJECTIVE: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric condition marked by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Female-born individuals are more likely to develop OCD; reproductive events...
IMPORTANCE AND OBJECTIVE: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric condition marked by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Female-born individuals are more likely to develop OCD; reproductive events such as menarche and the peripartum are also associated with increased symptom severity. This scoping review identified existing literature on the impact of menopause on OCD onset and symptoms. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews reporting guidelines. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, and CINAHL) were searched from inception to April 15, 2025, for original research studies examining the association between menopause and new onset or changes in preexisting obsessive-compulsive symptoms. We described study characteristics, main findings, and gaps in the existing literature. DISCUSSIONS AND CONCLUSION: Eight studies met criteria for inclusion in this review. All studies used quantitative methods, were cross-sectional, and relied on self-reported retrospective assessment of changes or onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in relation to the onset of menopause. Of 373 participants reporting on OCD onset, 17 (4.6%) reported that the initial appearance of their OCD symptoms had coincided with the onset of menopause. Of 265 participants reporting on symptom changes, 72 (27.2%) reported an exacerbation of their symptoms with the onset of menopause, while 30/265 (11.3%) reported an improvement in symptoms. Cross-sectional research suggests that OCD symptoms may change in severity or start with menopause in a subset of individuals. Longitudinal studies prospectively tracking OCD symptoms in the premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause phases are needed to confirm these findings. In the meantime, increased symptom monitoring of midlife female-born individuals with OCD is warranted.
Tirzepatide attenuates estrogen deficiency-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression by reducing steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in obese-diabetic mice.
Marcondes-de-Castro IA, Marinho TS, Aguila MB … +1 more , Mandarim-de-Lacerda CA
Menopause · 2026 Apr · PMID 41217893 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of estrogen deficiency on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression and evaluate the therapeutic potential of tirzepatide (Tzp), a dual glucose-dependent in...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of estrogen deficiency on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression and evaluate the therapeutic potential of tirzepatide (Tzp), a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, in a murine model of postmenopausal metabolic dysfunction. METHODS: Female C57BL/6J mice were divided into obese-diabetic (Od) and ovariectomized Od groups, along with lean controls (control, CO). After 12 weeks of dietary intervention, mice received daily Tzp (10 nmol/kg) or vehicle for four weeks. Comprehensive assessments included plasma biochemistry, liver histopathology, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 signaling analysis, and hepatic gene expressions. RESULTS: Od mice developed severe liver pathology, showing 2-3 fold increases in fat accumulation markers, extensive steatosis with hepatocyte ballooning, and 3-4 fold elevated inflammatory markers. Ovariectomy aggravated these effects, increasing fibrosis markers by 2.4-fold and apoptosis signals. Tzp reduced fat deposition by 50%-70%, inflammation by 60%-70%, and fibrosis by 55%. Molecular analyses revealed Tzp restored metabolic balance by: (1) normalizing key energy-sensing pathways (1.5-2 fold AMPK activation; 50% mTOR reduction), (2) reducing fat synthesis signals by 50%-60%, and (3) enhancing fat breakdown pathways (2-2.5 fold increase). Antioxidant defenses were fully restored to normal levels. Principal component analysis demonstrated metabolic improvement, with treated animals showing gene expression patterns closer to healthy controls. CONCLUSION: Estrogen deficiency synergizes with metabolic dysfunction to aggravate metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression through AMPK/mTOR pathway dysregulation. Tzp demonstrates comprehensive hepatoprotective effects, ameliorating steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis while restoring metabolic homeostasis in this model of postmenopausal liver disease.
The role of masturbation in relieving symptoms associated with menopause.
Lehmiller JJ, Graham CA, Ferrall L … +2 more , Mendelson EA, Prine MS
Menopause · 2026 Apr · PMID 41217890 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: The present research sought to explore the potential role of masturbation in the relief of symptoms associated with menopause. METHODS: A demographically representative US sample of 1,178 women ages 40-65 com...
OBJECTIVES: The present research sought to explore the potential role of masturbation in the relief of symptoms associated with menopause. METHODS: A demographically representative US sample of 1,178 women ages 40-65 completed an online survey about their current symptom management strategies (including masturbation) and their efficacy. Data were analyzed quantitatively using t tests and χ 2 , and qualitatively with thematic analysis. RESULTS: Nearly one in five perimenopausal and postmenopausal women had noticed that self-pleasure provided symptom relief. Relative to other symptom management strategies, masturbation was rated among the highest in providing symptom relief, especially with respect to psychological symptoms (ie, mood changes) and sleep disturbances. Nearly half of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women indicated that they would be open to trying masturbation as a symptom relief approach if their doctor recommended it. CONCLUSIONS: Masturbation may play a valuable role in managing menopause symptoms, and it is important that physicians discuss the potential benefits of self-pleasure with their patients.
Association between sleep-related disorders and hypertension in postmenopausal women from the United States.
Liu Z, Yang X, Sun F … +4 more , Feng H, You T, Chen C, Qiu J
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41217881 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: A notable research gap persists regarding the association between sleep-related disorders and hypertension risk in postmenopausal women in the United States, which this study aimed to address . METHODS: Data f...
OBJECTIVE: A notable research gap persists regarding the association between sleep-related disorders and hypertension risk in postmenopausal women in the United States, which this study aimed to address . METHODS: Data from 3,560 naturally postmenopausal women were analyzed using 6 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2018. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the relationships between sleep duration, trouble sleeping, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms with hypertension. Restricted cubic splines were used to identify nonlinear associations between sleep duration and hypertension. Finally, stratified analyses were taken to explore the associations between sleep-related disorders and hypertension across various subgroups based on health-related factors. RESULTS: Trouble sleeping and OSA were associated with an increased odds of hypertension in postmenopausal women (trouble sleeping: odds ratio = 1.61, 95% CI, 1.28-2.02; OSA: odds ratio = 1.63, 95% CI, 1.13-2.37). In addition, a U-shaped relationship between sleep duration and hypertension was identified ( P for overall = 0.0007, P for nonlinear = 0.0002), indicating that both insufficient and excessive sleep increased the odds of hypertension. Subgroup analysis revealed that body mass index moderated these associations (trouble sleeping: P for interaction = 0.038; OSA: P for interaction = 0.044), with stronger effects observed in obese women. CONCLUSION: Sleep-related disorders are significantly associated with hypertension in postmenopausal women in the United States. Our findings emphasized the importance of sleep health and weight management in the management of hypertension in this population.
Midlife women's stress and burnout: associations with health-related quality of life, physical activity, and physical function.
Sabik NJ, Logan NE, Ward-Ritacco CL
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41217877 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Midlife women are subject to stress and burnout, which are associated with decreases in physical function and activity. However, the associations between stress, burnout, and factors including health-related q...
OBJECTIVE: Midlife women are subject to stress and burnout, which are associated with decreases in physical function and activity. However, the associations between stress, burnout, and factors including health-related quality of life, physical function, and physical activity have not been assessed concurrently. These studies assess these associations to address critical questions about how stress and burnout independently are associated with key outcomes that impact midlife women's experiences of aging. METHODS: Two studies assessed stress, burnout, quality of life, physical function, and activity in two samples of midlife women (ages 40-65). The first study is from an online data collection assessing health-related quality of life. The second study assessed self-report data on health-related quality of life as well as objective functional assessments and actigraph data to assess physical activity. RESULTS: Study 1 indicated that self-reported stress and burnout accounted for significant variance in physical and mental quality of life (β range from 0.14 to 0.63 for P <0.05 associations). Study 2 indicated that burnout, but not stress, was negatively associated with steps per day (β=-0.38, P =0.008) and moderate to vigorous physical activity per day (β=-0.31, P =0.030). Post hoc analyses revealed an indirect effect of burnout on physical function outcomes via average steps per day (effects ranged from -0.13 to 0.15). CONCLUSION: Psychological and functional aspects of quality of life are associated with increased stress and burnout. Results indicated that higher burnout has a direct association with decreased physical activity levels and an indirect effect on physical function. Distinguishing between stress and burnout and understanding the pattern of association with key indicators of physical function activity, as well as health-related quality of life, provides information that can help prevent functional decline.
The burden of sleep disturbances on quality of life and mental well-being in nearly 50,000 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with and without concurrent vasomotor symptoms from the United States and Europe.
Soares CN, Briggs P, Dinkel-Keuthage C … +7 more , Schoof N, Moeller C, Nguyen J, Genga K, Drakeley S, Modi K, Maki PM
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41190624 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To quantify the burden of sleep disturbances on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental well-being in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with/without co-occurring vasomotor symptoms (VMS). METH...
OBJECTIVES: To quantify the burden of sleep disturbances on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental well-being in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with/without co-occurring vasomotor symptoms (VMS). METHODS: Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women aged 40 to 65 years who participated in the National Health and Wellness 2019/2021 (US; N=27,621) and 2017/2020 cross-sectional surveys (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK; N=20,220) were included. Patient-reported outcomes were HRQoL (Short-Form Health Survey physical and mental component summary scores, EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale, EQ-5D-5L), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 assessment). Associations between self-reported sleep disturbances and/or VMS and study outcomes were evaluated using generalized multivariable linear regression. RESULTS: Among perimenopausal women, sleep disturbances were reported by 61.7% (US) and 60.6% (Europe) with VMS, and 38.0% (US) and 40.8% (Europe) without VMS. Among postmenopausal women, sleep disturbances were reported by 66.7% (US) and 63.4% (Europe) with VMS, and 44.5% (US) and 40.9% (Europe) without VMS. Compared with women with neither symptom, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with sleep disturbances had worse HRQoL ( P <0.001) and higher (worse) depression and anxiety scores ( P <0.05 perimenopausal, P <0.001 postmenopausal) irrespective of VMS. In addition, among postmenopausal women, those with sleep disturbances alone had worse HRQoL and higher (worse) depression and anxiety scores than those with VMS alone ( P <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Sleep disturbance was common among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women irrespective of VMS, and independently associated with negative effects on HRQoL, depression, and anxiety. Effective treatments for sleep disturbances and VMS in menopausal women are needed to mitigate the associated burden and improve well-being.
The effect of probiotic consumption on fatigue severity and sexual function among postmenopausal women: a double-blind randomized controlled trial in the west of Iran.
Kazemi F, Abbasalizadeh M, Mehrpooya M … +3 more , Najafi-Vosough R, Soltani F, Jenabi E
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41186601 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Fatigue and sexual function are reproductive health issues for women. The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of probiotic supplementation on fatigue severity, sexual function (primary outcome)...
OBJECTIVE: Fatigue and sexual function are reproductive health issues for women. The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of probiotic supplementation on fatigue severity, sexual function (primary outcome), and quality of life (secondary outcome) among postmenopausal women. METHODS: A parallel, double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted over 3 months, from September 5, 2024, to December 5, 2024, at Comprehensive Health Service Centers in Hamadan City, Western Iran. The women in the intervention group were administered probiotic supplements in 200 mg daily capsules for 6 weeks. The control group received identically shaped and colored 200 mg capsules filled with starch powder, also taken once daily for 6 weeks. The primary outcomes were measured using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) questionnaires at baseline, week 3, and week 6. RESULTS: In the study, 80 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to 2 groups: one receiving probiotic capsules (n=40) and the other receiving a placebo (n=40). The results reported no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the 2 groups ( P >0.05). The findings showed that the study outcomes changed differently over time between the probiotic and placebo groups. Women in the probiotic group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in fatigue severity at both 3 and 6 weeks compared with the placebo group ( P =0.006 and 0.001, respectively). The mean FSFI scores and their dimensions in the probiotic group at 3 and 6 weeks following the initiation of the intervention were significantly higher than those in the placebo group, with statistically significant differences observed across all domains, except the pain domain at week 3 ( P <0.05). Results showed at 3 and 6 weeks following the initiation of the intervention, the probiotic group experienced a reduction in symptoms across the vasomotor ( P =0.03 and 0.004, respectively), psychosocial ( P =0.01 and 0.004, respectively), physical ( P =0.07 and 0.002, respectively), and sexual domains ( P =0.02 and 0.005, respectively), as well as in the total MENQOL score ( P =0.003 and <0.001, respectively), when compared with the placebo group. CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence supporting the potential therapeutic effects of probiotic consumption in alleviating fatigue severity and improving sexual function in postmenopausal women. In addition, quality of life during menopause was found to improve. Further multicenter, large-scale clinical trials with extended follow-up periods are recommended to confirm these findings.
Factors associated with subjective cognitive symptoms during the menopause transition.
Zhu C, Thomas EH, Arunogiri S … +3 more , Spector A, Li Q, Gurvich C
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41186597 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Subjective cognitive symptoms, also referred to as "brain fog," are commonly reported by women in perimenopause. The factors that contribute to "brain fog" are not clear. The aim of the current study was to e...
OBJECTIVES: Subjective cognitive symptoms, also referred to as "brain fog," are commonly reported by women in perimenopause. The factors that contribute to "brain fog" are not clear. The aim of the current study was to explore whether demographic factors (age, educational level, parity, and marital status), lifestyle factors (mindfulness, alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, attitude towards menopause, and hormonal therapy use), psychological and menopausal symptoms (anxiety, depression, stress, sleep, physical, vasomotor, sexual, and psychosocial), are linked to menopausal brain fog. METHODS: A total of 208 perimenopausal women were included in the analysis, who were aged 41-60 years and completed an online survey that included assessment of demographic and lifestyle factors as well as menopause symptoms alongside the Everyday Memory Questionnaire-Revised (measuring subjective deficits in retrieval and attention). For initial exploration, univariable logistic regression was conducted for each of the factors described above in relation to the subjective cognitive outcomes. A random forest analysis was subsequently performed to assist in selecting variables based on their importance. Selected variables (all 8 psychological and menopausal symptom variables, mindfulness, age, alcohol consumption, educational level, and parity) were included in a multivariable logistic regression to estimate the adjusted effects of the selected variables on the outcome. RESULTS: In the multivariable models, higher mindfulness was significantly associated with reduced odds of reporting both memory retrieval (odds ratio [OR] = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.34-0.77; P = 0.002) and attentional difficulties (OR = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.24-0.57; P < 0.001). Higher Menopause-specific Quality Of Life-Psychosocial scores were linked to increased odds of attentional complaints (OR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.31-4.34; P = 0.005), and showed a marginal association with retrieval difficulties (OR = 1.64; 95% CI = 0.94-2.89; P = 0.086). Menopause-specific Quality of Life-Sexual also showed a marginal association with retrieval complaints (OR = 1.36; 95% CI = 0.95-1.97; P = 0.097). No other demographic, lifestyle, or menopause-related variables were significantly associated with cognitive outcomes after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Current findings highlight the relevance of mindfulness and certain menopausal symptoms in subjective cognitive complaints, warranting further investigation to clarify their causal roles and potential as intervention targets.
Moving through menopause: a mixed methods study of UK women's experiences of being physically active during the menopause life stage.
Niven AG, Strain T, Reid J … +3 more , Sivaramakrishnan D, Mutrie N, Fitzsimons C
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41186583 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: There is growing evidence for the benefits of physical activity during the menopause life stage. However, limited research has explored physical activity behavior of UK women. Using a mixed-methods approach, 2...
OBJECTIVE: There is growing evidence for the benefits of physical activity during the menopause life stage. However, limited research has explored physical activity behavior of UK women. Using a mixed-methods approach, 2 phases of research were undertaken to: (1) assess physical activity levels and examine the relationship with menopausal symptoms, and (2) use the COM-B theoretical framework to understand the influence of "Capability, Opportunity and Motivation" on physical activity Behavior. METHODS: In phase 1, participants completed an online survey (n = 655; mean age = 49.9 y). Descriptive analyses were supplemented with χ 2 tests, with Bonferroni correction. In phase 2, 4 online focus groups (n = 24; mean age = 52.7 y) were undertaken and thematically analyzed. RESULTS: In phase 1, 75% reported achieving 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity/week, although 57% reported activity levels had decreased during the menopause life stage. Twelve out of 14 symptoms were experienced by >50%, with changes in mood and brain fog most common (>80%). There was no significant difference in the proportion meeting the moderate to vigorous physical activity guidelines between those women who did or did not experience individual symptoms, although for 10/14 symptoms, >50% indicated a negative impact on likelihood to engage in activity. In phase 2, capability (eg, menopausal symptoms), opportunity (eg, social support), and motivation (eg, low confidence) were all influential on behavior. CONCLUSION: These findings enhance our understanding of UK women's experiences of being physically active during the menopause, and provide insight into potential intervention strategies to support women to be active at that time.
Association between central adiposity and cognitive domain function in recently postmenopausal women: an analysis from the KEEPS-Cog substudy of the Kronos Early Estrogen Preventive Study.
James TT, Dowling NM, Ferrer Simó C … +24 more , Salazar H, Van Hulle CA, Ennis G, Johnson AL, Wyman MF, McLester-Davis LWY, Gooding DC, Fischer B, Bouges S, Umucu E, Kara F, Kling JM, Manson JE, Brinton EA, Cedars MI, Lobo RA, Neal-Perry G, Santoro NF, Naftolin F, Harman SM, Pal L, Miller VM, Kantarci K, Gleason CE
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41186575 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To determine associations between central adiposity, cognitive function, and randomized menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) in a reanalysis of the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study-Cognitive and Affective (K...
OBJECTIVE: To determine associations between central adiposity, cognitive function, and randomized menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) in a reanalysis of the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study-Cognitive and Affective (KEEPS-Cog) sub-study participants. METHODS: KEEPS randomized 727 women (ages 42-58) who were <36 months postnatural menopause to oral conjugated equine estrogens (o-CEE), transdermal 17-β-estradiol (t-E2), or placebo for 48 months. Participants with diabetes, body mass index >35 kg/m 2 , coronary artery calcium score >50 Agatston Units, and other cardiometabolic disease risk indicators were excluded from enrollment. In the ancillary KEEPS-Cog study, cognitive tests were completed at baseline, 18-, 36-, and 48-month post-randomization. In these analyses, cognitive variables were summarized as four cognitive domain-specific factor scores: verbal learning and memory, auditory attention and working memory, visual attention and executive function, and speeded language and mental flexibility. Waist-hip-ratio (WHR), an indicator of central adiposity, was measured at screening (baseline) and modeled as a covariate in linear latent growth models assessing associations of MHT with cognitive functions at baseline and over time. RESULTS: Higher baseline WHR was associated with poorer performance on all domain-specific cognitive outcomes at baseline and with changes in visual attention and executive function across time. Models including interaction effects were not significant for either o-CEE x WHR or t-E2 x WHR. CONCLUSION: Central adiposity is a risk factor for domain-specific cognitive decline, and thus, cognitive health effects should be investigated in early postmenopausal women, even in women with low cardiovascular risk statuses.
Efficacy of oral versus transdermal estrogen therapy on cardiovascular and lipid parameters among postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Doma M, Loayza Pintado JJ, Atwal A … +16 more , Jesus AL, Zahrawi FM, Saleh I, El Gammal A, Maharm Z, Ramadan A, Vlassis B, Ali MS, Aljamali MK, Pandey R, Mefti M, Badran M, Aslam M, Subedi A, Shah J, Aiash H
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41186572 · Publisher ↗
IMPORTANCE: Menopause is characterized by significant physiological changes, including cardiovascular and hormonal alterations. Estrogen therapy is a critical intervention for managing menopausal symptoms and preventing...
IMPORTANCE: Menopause is characterized by significant physiological changes, including cardiovascular and hormonal alterations. Estrogen therapy is a critical intervention for managing menopausal symptoms and preventing long-term complications. Understanding the differences between the estrogen therapy administration routes is essential for optimizing treatment strategies. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare oral and transdermal routes of estrogen therapy among postmenopausal women and assess changes from baseline in key cardiovascular and lipid parameters, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, total cholesterol, low and high-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride levels. EVIDENCE REVIEW: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials. gov were searched for randomized clinical trials comparing oral and transdermal estrogen therapy in postmenopausal women. Pooled mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs were estimated using a random effects model. Statistical analyses were performed using R version 4.3.2. FINDINGS: Eight randomized clinical trials, with a total of 885 participants, were included. Of these participants, 453 (51.2%) received oral estrogen therapy. Participants receiving oral estrogen therapy had a higher mean change in high-density lipoprotein levels (MD=3.48 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.54-5.43; P <0.01) coupled with a significant rise in mean triglyceride levels (MD=19.82; 95% CI: 6.85-32.78; P <0.01), compared with participants receiving transdermal estrogen therapy. There were no significant differences in the mean changes from baseline in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein levels. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Compared with transdermal estrogen therapy, oral estrogen therapy was associated with a greater increase in high-density lipoprotein levels in postmenopausal women. However, this was associated with a greater increase in the triglyceride levels. This suggests that the choice of estrogen therapy route should be individualized, considering the patients' baseline hormonal and metabolic parameters, particularly lipid profiles.
Identifying mental health profiles among women in peri- and post-menopause using a latent profile analysis approach.
Branquinho M, Monteiro F, Fonseca A
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41186518 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore, characterize, and compare mental health profiles of women in peri- and post-menopause. METHODS: A sample of 577 women aged between 45 and 55 in perimenopause (66.6%) and postmenopa...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore, characterize, and compare mental health profiles of women in peri- and post-menopause. METHODS: A sample of 577 women aged between 45 and 55 in perimenopause (66.6%) and postmenopause (33.4%) participated in an online survey. A latent profile analysis was conducted to estimate the number of profiles, based on anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms and positive mental health. Differences in menopause-related, sociodemographic, and clinical data between profiles were examined. RESULTS: Four mental health profiles were identified: impaired mental health (IMH; elevated depressive and anxiety symptoms and low positive mental health); threatened mental health (TMH; mild depressive and anxiety symptoms and low positive mental health); moderate mental health (MMH; low depressive and anxiety symptoms, and moderate positive mental health); complete mental health (CMH; low depressive and anxiety symptoms and high positive mental health).Significant differences between profiles were found, with women in the IMH profile reporting the highest levels of menopausal symptoms, insomnia severity, lower sexual functioning, and greater negative impact on work life, romantic relationships, and overall health and well-being. Women in the CMH profile were more likely to be employed and to have higher incomes compared to other profiles. Differences were also observed in the history of psychopathology, current professional care for peri- and post-menopausal symptoms and physical exercise practice. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide evidence for diverse patterns of mental health during transition to menopause, with important implications for screening and intervention, including the development of tailored psychological interventions.
Low creatinine to cystatin C ratio is associated with lower muscle volumes and poorer gait speeds in the longitudinal integrated Women's Health Program cohort: Erratum.
Tan DYZ, Wong BWX, Shen L … +2 more , Li LJ, Yong EL
Menopause · 2025 Nov · PMID 41144255 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
To the Editor.
Zhen J, Zhao Z, Xu L
Menopause · 2025 Nov · PMID 41144254 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Perimenopause: addressing symptoms and contraceptive needs.
Kaunitz AM
Menopause · 2025 Nov · PMID 41144253 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Self-reported urinary tract infections in the past year among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: a nationally representative survey.
Bangura M, Malani PN, Solway E … +5 more , Kirch M, Singer DC, Kullgren JT, Schmidt PC, Morgan DM
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41117709 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with self-reported urinary tract infection (UTI) within the past year among a population-based sample of women aged 50-80. METHODS: Data were collected from a nationally represen...
OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with self-reported urinary tract infection (UTI) within the past year among a population-based sample of women aged 50-80. METHODS: Data were collected from a nationally representative survey conducted by the National Poll on Healthy Aging from January to February 2022 of a randomly selected, stratified group of US women aged 50-80. The primary outcome was self-reported UTI in the past year. Sociodemographic variables and comorbidities were analyzed with a multivariable logistic regression to identify independent risk factors for UTI. RESULTS: Among 1,200 participants, 198 (16.5%) reported a UTI. In bivariate analysis, women reporting a UTI experienced more menopausal symptoms including sleep problems (68.7% vs. 54.0%, P =0.008), reduced libido (64.2% vs. 44.5%, P =0.001), mood swings/irritability (55.4% vs. 34%, P <0.001), and pelvic/ bladder pain (40.5% vs. 7.3%, P <0.001) than women who did not report a UTI. Using logistic regression models adjusted for age, education, marital status, sexual activity, and co-morbidities, women who reported ≥4 menopausal symptoms were more likely to report a UTI compared with women with 0-1 menopausal symptoms (aOR 7.74, 95% CI: 3.67-16.34, P <0.001). Women with annual household incomes <$30,000 were significantly more likely than women with household incomes >$100,000 to report a UTI (aOR 2.89, 95% CI: 1.32-6.34, P =0.008). CONCLUSION: UTI in the past year was significantly associated with multiple menopausal symptoms and lower household income. Providers should screen for menopausal symptoms in women reporting a UTI. Having a lower annual household income may be a risk factor for UTI and could represent a disparity that warrants further investigation.
Baseline use of aspirin or statins with oral estrogen and progestogens to prevent incident arterial or venous thrombotic events: a secondary analysis of the Women's Health Initiative trial.
Davis JW, Aragaki AK, Harrington LB … +8 more , Rossouw JE, Wells G, Shadyab A, Schnatz PF, Shufelt CL, Warsinger-Martin L, Wild RA, Manson JE
Menopause · 2026 Feb · PMID 41117635 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether effects of oral hormone therapy (HT) on risks of venous and arterial vascular events differ by baseline statin or aspirin use. METHODS: We performed time-to-event analysis using data from t...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether effects of oral hormone therapy (HT) on risks of venous and arterial vascular events differ by baseline statin or aspirin use. METHODS: We performed time-to-event analysis using data from the Women's Health Initiative menopausal HT randomized trials to assess risk of thrombotic events. Women were randomized to oral conjugated equine estrogens (CEEs) alone or placebo among women with prior hysterectomy (n = 10,739), and CEE with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or placebo among women with an intact uterus (n = 16,608), stratified by baseline personal use of statins and aspirin. We evaluated risk of prespecified, adjudicated thrombotic events, including coronary heart disease, stroke, venous thromboembolism, and/or composite major adverse cardiovascular events, at 2 and 5 years. RESULTS: Baseline statin use (n = 827 in CEE-alone trial; n = 1,115 in CEE+MPA trial) or aspirin use (n = 2,212; n = 3,431) was limited. At 5-year follow-up, coronary heart disease risk for CEE-alone versus placebo was hazard ratio (HR) = 0.81 (95% CI: 0.44-1.49) in statin users, similar to nonusers, HR = 1.07 (95% CI: 0.82-1.40). For CEE+MPA, there was also no difference by statin use, HR = 1.02 (95% CI: 0.55-1.89) and HR = 1.47 (95% CI: 1.13-1.90), respectively. Neither statin nor aspirin exposure significantly modified effects of HT on any arterial or venous thrombotic outcome at 2 or 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: In this secondary randomized clinical trial analysis, neither statins nor aspirin significantly modified effects of oral HT on key arterial or venous thrombotic outcomes at 2 or 5 years. Results, however, may be underpowered given low baseline exposure prevalence for both statins and aspirin.
Isoflavones improve vaginal atrophy, skin health, and sex-related hormones in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Na Takuathung M, Inpan R, Yaja K … +3 more , Ruansit W, Teekachunhatean S, Koonrungsesomboon N
Menopause · 2025 Dec · PMID 41117624 · Publisher ↗
IMPORTANCE: Isoflavones, natural bioactive compounds with estrogen-like properties, are increasingly used by postmenopausal women to manage menopausal symptoms. However, research on their efficacy has produced inconsiste...
IMPORTANCE: Isoflavones, natural bioactive compounds with estrogen-like properties, are increasingly used by postmenopausal women to manage menopausal symptoms. However, research on their efficacy has produced inconsistent results, necessitating a comprehensive review to guide clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of isoflavone interventions on vaginal atrophy, skin health, and sex-related hormone levels in postmenopausal women through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. EVIDENCE REVIEW: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to January 2025. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials investigating isoflavone interventions in postmenopausal women. Effect sizes were summarized as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% CIs using a random-effects model. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 tool. FINDINGS: The analysis included 47 studies comprising 2,657 participants. Isoflavone interventions significantly reduced vaginal dryness (SMD=-1.147; 95% CI, -2.077 to -0.216; P =0.016; I2 =95.4%) and increased the vaginal maturation value (SMD=0.605; 95% CI, 0.087 to 1.123; P =0.022; I2 =88.7%). Improvements in skin health were observed, including reduced skin roughness measure R2 (SMD=-0.209; 95% CI, -0.389 to -0.029; P =0.028; I²=0.0%) and wrinkle surface (SMD=-0.342; 95% CI, -0.560 to -0.124; P =0.002; I2 =0.0%). Isoflavones also significantly increased estradiol levels (SMD=0.247; 95% CI, 0.059 to 0.435; P =0.010; I2 =60.5%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Isoflavone interventions effectively manage vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women and show potential for improving skin health and sex-related hormone levels. These findings underscore the therapeutic value of isoflavones while emphasizing the need for further research, particularly regarding their effects on skin health.
Distinguishing hot flashes and night sweats: a mixed-method analysis.
Shreyer S, Brown DE, Dorsey AF … +2 more , Witkowski S, Sievert LL
Menopause · 2026 Mar · PMID 41117615 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to differentiate hot flashes (HF) and night sweats (NS) as distinct vasomotor symptoms (VMS) by integrating physiological, self-reported, and qualitative data. Specifically, we investigate (1)...
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to differentiate hot flashes (HF) and night sweats (NS) as distinct vasomotor symptoms (VMS) by integrating physiological, self-reported, and qualitative data. Specifically, we investigate (1) whether participants distinguish between HF and NS, (2) how subjective reports of NS correspond to objective physiological measures, and (3) whether HF and NS exhibit different associations with stress, depression, and sleep. METHODS: Data were drawn from a study on brown adipose tissue and HF (n = 274, ages 45-55). Participants answered questions regarding lifestyle, well-being, and menopause experiences, and wore skin conductance (to detect HF and NS) and activity monitors overnight. Questions about HF and NS experience were analyzed with thematic analysis. Objective NS scores were compared with subjective reports. Logistic regression analyses were used to compare subjective and objective VMS to stress, depression, and sleep variables. RESULTS: Qualitative responses revealed that participants perceived NS as distinct from HF, describing NS as prolonged, full-body sweating events, often without the intense heat or anxiety typical of HF. Objectively, NS were significantly longer than HF (mean: 60.5 vs 3.4 min) and occurred earlier in the night ( P = 0.02). Self-reported NS corresponded with objective NS counts ( P = 0.04). Only subjective VMS were significantly associated with stress (NS: 1.04, 1.00-1.09), depression (HF: 1.11, 1.02-1.20; NS: 1.12, 1.04-1.20) and sleep (HF: 1.28, 1.09-1.50). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that NS and HF represent distinct phenomena rather than variations of the same symptom. The results underscore the need for separate criteria for NS in research and clinical practice, as NS may have unique health implications beyond those of HF.
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