Menopause

• The number of oocytes in each women's ovaries is fixed during the foetal period. It is at its peak at around 20-28 weeks gestation and falls with each menstrual cycle
• • Process of menopause begins with a decline in the development of the ovarian follicles - without the growth of follicles, there is reduces production of oestrogen
  • As levels of oestrogen fall in the perimenopausal period, there is an absence of negative feedback on the pituitary gland - increasing levels of LH and FSH
  • Failing of follicular development results in anovulation - irregular menstrual cycles
  • Without oestrogen the endometrium does not develop, leading to amenorrhoea
  • Lower levels of oestrogen causes the perimenopausal symptoms