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Lee H, La IS. Association between health literacy and self-management among middle-aged women: A systematic review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2024; 123:108188. [PMID: 38354431 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2024.108188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to review and synthesize the literature on the association between health literacy (HL) and self-management in middle-aged women aged 35-64 years and examine the definitions and measurements of HL. METHODS Eleven electronic databases were used for searching specific terms. Experimental and non-experimental studies in English or Korean were included based on the eligibility criteria. Two authors independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment. RESULTS One experimental and 13 non-experimental studies were included. Of the 11 studies that defined HL, nine conceptualized it as reflecting multidimensional HL. Four studies measured HL capturing all dimensions of the concept (i.e., accessing, understanding, appraising, and applying) and two studies used context-specific HL measurements. Women with greater HL challenges generally had lower self-management context, process, and outcomes across the health continuum. CONCLUSIONS Enhancing HL is a critical strategy for improving self-management in middle-aged women. Future research should investigate the effectiveness of HL interventions on self-management considering multidimensional definitions and measures of HL. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Health professionals should be alert to middle-aged women's HL and implement HL interventions that provide them with opportunities to access, understand, analyze, and utilize health-related information to effectively improve HL and engage in self-management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haein Lee
- College of Nursing, Daegu Catholic University, 33 Duryugongwon-ro 17-gil, Nam-gu, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - In Seo La
- College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Laven JSE, Louwers YV. Can we predict menopause and premature ovarian insufficiency? Fertil Steril 2024; 121:737-741. [PMID: 38382699 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The prediction of menopause and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) involves understanding the factors that contribute to the timing of these events. Menopause is a natural biological process marked by the cessation of menstrual periods, typically occurring around the age of 51. On the other hand, POI refers to the loss of ovarian function before the age of 40. Several factors have been used to predict menopause and POI such as age, antimüllerian hormone, inhibins and follicle-stimulating hormone serum levels, antral follicle counts, menstrual cycle length, and, recently, some genetic markers. It seems that age has the best predictive power and all the other ones are only adding in a very limited way to the prediction of menopause. Low levels of antimüllerian hormone in young women might indicate a greater risk for POI and could facilitate early diagnosis. It is, however, important to note that predicting the exact timing of menopause and POI is challenging, and individual variations are significant. Although these factors can provide some insights, they are not foolproof predictors. Advances in medical research and technology may lead to more accurate methods for predicting menopause and POI in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joop S E Laven
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne V Louwers
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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3
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Rehman A, Lathief S, Charoenngam N, Pal L. Aging and Adiposity-Focus on Biological Females at Midlife and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2972. [PMID: 38474226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Menopause is a physiological phase of life of aging women, and more than 1 billion women worldwide will be in menopause by 2025. The processes of global senescence parallel stages of reproductive aging and occur alongside aging-related changes in the body. Alterations in the endocrine pathways accompany and often predate the physiologic changes of aging, and interactions of these processes are increasingly being recognized as contributory to the progression of senescence. Our goal for this review is to examine, in aging women, the complex interplay between the endocrinology of menopause transition and post-menopause, and the metabolic transition, the hallmark being an increasing tendency towards central adiposity that begins in tandem with reproductive aging and is often exacerbated post menopause. For the purpose of this review, our choice of the terms 'female' and 'woman' refer to genetic females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Rehman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Berkshire Medical Center, Pittsfield, MA 02101, USA
| | - Sanam Lathief
- Division of Endocrinology, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nipith Charoenngam
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Lubna Pal
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Mehta JM, Manson JE. The menopausal transition period and cardiovascular risk. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:203-211. [PMID: 37752349 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00926-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The menopausal transition period spans, on average, 2-8 years before the final menstrual period and is associated with an increase in clinical and subclinical cardiovascular risk. In this Review, we discuss the metabolic and cardiovascular changes that occur during the menopausal transition period and the role of ovarian ageing, chronological ageing and other ageing-related risk factors in mediating these changes. Disentangling the relative contributions of chronological and reproductive ageing to cardiovascular risk is challenging, but data from longitudinal studies in women transitioning from premenopause to post-menopause have provided valuable insights. We also discuss evidence on how cardiovascular risk is altered by premature or early menopause, surgical menopause, and vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms. Whether targeted interventions can slow the progression of atherosclerosis and subclinical disease during the menopausal transition, thus delaying or preventing the onset of cardiovascular events, remains to be determined. Furthermore, we consider the recommended strategies for cardiovascular risk reduction in women undergoing menopausal transition using the framework of the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, and discuss the cardiovascular risks and benefits of menopausal hormone therapy. Finally, we also discuss novel therapies that might benefit this population in reducing cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya M Mehta
- Allegheny General Hospital Internal Medicine, Primary Care Institute, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - JoAnn E Manson
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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5
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Nichols AR, Chavarro JE, Oken E. Reproductive risk factors across the female lifecourse and later metabolic health. Cell Metab 2024; 36:240-262. [PMID: 38280383 PMCID: PMC10871592 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic health is characterized by optimal blood glucose, lipids, cholesterol, blood pressure, and adiposity. Alterations in these characteristics may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia. Recent evidence suggests that female reproductive characteristics may be overlooked as risk factors that contribute to later metabolic dysfunction. These reproductive traits include the age at menarche, menstrual irregularity, the development of polycystic ovary syndrome, gestational weight change, gestational dysglycemia and dyslipidemia, and the severity and timing of menopausal symptoms. These risk factors may themselves be markers of future dysfunction or may be explained by shared underlying etiologies that promote long-term disease development. Disentangling underlying relationships and identifying potentially modifiable characteristics have an important bearing on therapeutic lifestyle modifications that could ease long-term metabolic burden. Further research that better characterizes associations between reproductive characteristics and metabolic health, clarifies underlying etiologies, and identifies indicators for clinical application is warranted in the prevention and management of metabolic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy R Nichols
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jorge E Chavarro
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emily Oken
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Armeni A, Armeni E, Augoulea A, Delialis D, Angelidakis L, Papaioannou M, Kaparos G, Alexandrou A, Georgopoulos N, Vlahos N, Stamatelopoulos K, Lambrinoudaki I. Sexual function scores are associated with arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women. J Sex Med 2024; 21:145-152. [PMID: 38048636 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been suggested to be correlated with the burden of cardiovascular risk factors. AIM We aimed to evaluate the possible association between functional indices of vascular function and FSD scores in apparently healthy postmenopausal women. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 116 postmenopausal women who underwent assessment of endothelial function with measurement of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the branchial artery and arterial stiffness estimation with measurement of the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). We used the Greene Climacteric Scale to evaluate vasomotor symptomatology, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to evaluate FSD and the Beck Depression Inventory to evaluate mood disorder. Low sexual function was defined as an FSFI score <26.55. OUTCOMES These included FSFI and low sexual function scores as well as measures of PWV and FMD. RESULTS Sexual function scores were associated with measures of blood pressure (normal vs low sexual function; systolic blood pressure: 120.2 ± 15.0 mm Hg vs 113.4 ± 14.6 mm Hg; analysis of covariance P = .026; diastolic blood pressure: 75.9 ± 10.5 mm Hg vs 70.3 ± 9.9 mm Hg; analysis of covariance P = .012; both adjusted for age, body mass index, current smoking, and PWV). Systolic blood pressure, but not diastolic blood pressure, was associated with FSFI (B = 0.249, P = .041) and PWV (B = 0.392, P < .001). PWV measures were associated with FSFI (B = -0.291, P = .047) and pulse pressure (B = 0.355, P = .017). FMD measures were also associated with FSFI (B = 0.427, P = .033). All models were adjusted for age, body mass index, current smoking, insulin resistance, vasomotor symptomatology, and Beck Depression Inventory. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Our findings demonstrate that lower scores of sexual function are associated with deteriorated vascular function mainly manifested as arterial stiffening, further contributing to systolic blood pressure changes. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The strength of this study is the carefully selected healthy sample of postmenopausal women, with simultaneous assessment of climacteric symptomatology and mood disorders. The limitations include the small sample size, the cross-sectional design, and the recruitment of consecutive outpatients of a university menopause clinic. CONCLUSION Longitudinal studies and interventions to improve FSD should further assess the clinical relevance of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Armeni
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Armeni
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
- Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Medical School, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Areti Augoulea
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Delialis
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Lasthenis Angelidakis
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Papaioannou
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - George Kaparos
- Biochemical Laboratory, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Alexandrou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Neoklis Georgopoulos
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Nicolaos Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Kimon Stamatelopoulos
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
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Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Ambruoso D, Cetera GE, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part II: medical interventions. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:18-34. [PMID: 37951241 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
According to consistent epidemiological data, the slope of the incidence curve of endometriosis rises rapidly and sharply around the age of 25 years. The delay in diagnosis is generally reported to be between 5 and 8 years in adult women, but it appears to be over 10 years in adolescents. If this is true, the actual onset of endometriosis in many young women would be chronologically placed in the early postmenarchal years. Ovulation and menstruation are inflammatory events that, when occurring repeatedly for years, may theoretically favour the early development of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Moreover, repeated acute dysmenorrhoea episodes after menarche may not only be an indicator of ensuing endometriosis or adenomyosis, but may also promote the transition from acute to chronic pelvic pain through central sensitization mechanisms, as well as the onset of chronic overlapping pain conditions. Therefore, secondary prevention aimed at reducing suffering, limiting lesion progression, and preserving future reproductive potential should be focused on the age group that could benefit most from the intervention, i.e. severely symptomatic adolescents. Early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis should be promptly suspected even when physical and ultrasound findings are negative, and long-term ovulatory suppression may be established until conception seeking. As nowadays this could mean using hormonal therapies for several years, drug safety evaluation is crucial. In adolescents without recognized major contraindications to oestrogens, the use of very low-dose combined oral contraceptives is associated with a marginal increase in the individual absolute risk of thromboembolic events. Oral contraceptives containing oestradiol instead of ethinyl oestradiol may further limit such risk. Oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progestogens do not increase the thromboembolic risk, but may interfere with attainment of peak bone mass in young women. Levonorgestrel-releasing intra-uterine devices may be a safe alternative for adolescents, as amenorrhoea is frequently induced without suppression of the ovarian activity. With regard to oncological risk, the net effect of long-term oestrogen-progestogen combinations use is a small reduction in overall cancer risk. Whether surgery should be considered the first-line approach in young women with chronic pelvic pain symptoms seems questionable. Especially when large endometriomas or infiltrating lesions are not detected at pelvic imaging, laparoscopy should be reserved to adolescents who refuse hormonal treatments or in whom first-line medications are not effective, not tolerated, or contraindicated. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms, including self-reported outcome measures, for young individuals with a clinical suspicion of early-onset endometriosis or adenomyosis are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Bandini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Deborah Ambruoso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Kracht CL, St Romain J, Hardee JC, Santoro N, Redman LM, Marlatt KL. "Weight loss is my goal and being healthy is my goal… I can get over the hot flashes": a qualitative exploration of menopausal transition experiences and preferences for weight management among White women. Menopause 2023; 30:1022-1032. [PMID: 37699233 PMCID: PMC10528173 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A qualitative research study design was used to (1) describe experiences of White women during the menopausal transition, and (2) identify barriers and facilitators for participating in a lifestyle program targeting weight management. METHODS Perimenopausal and postmenopausal White women who self-reported a desire to lose or maintain weight participated in focus groups. Women were queried about their past diet, exercise, and weight management practices; menopausal transition; and specific components and considerations for developing a lifestyle program for weight management. Thematic analysis was conducted on coded transcripts and four main themes emerged, each containing three to six subthemes. RESULTS Twenty-eight White women (age 54 ± 3 y, body mass index 31.4 ± 9.5 kg/m 2 ) were enrolled. Overall, women felt menopause was a major life event that coincided with weight gain and frustrating body changes. Women already engaged in many different types of exercises and diets to lose weight. Women also talked to healthcare professionals about menopause but were disappointed in the support they received. Women were interested in a lifestyle program that included menopause-specific education, which focused on results beyond weight, which was flexible to their busy lifestyle, and which provided opportunities to build camaraderie among other women experiencing menopause. CONCLUSIONS This cohort of White women were interested in receiving menopause information and improving their overall health as part of a lifestyle program targeting weight management during this transition. Building camaraderie with other women affected by menopause is important to women, as is creating a lifestyle program that is flexible with daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julie C Hardee
- From the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Leanne M Redman
- From the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Kara L Marlatt
- From the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA
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9
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Baber R. World Menopause Day. Climacteric 2023; 26:409-410. [PMID: 37671974 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2247269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
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10
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Serati M, Espuña-Pons M, Mouton-Puglisi A, Padoa A. Iron deficiency and sexual dysfunction in women. Sex Med Rev 2023; 11:342-348. [PMID: 37433756 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual dysfunction negatively affects approximately 40% to 50% of adult women across various stages of life. Common risk factors include sexual traumas, relationship problems, chronic conditions, medication side effects, and poor physical health, including iron deficiency. OBJECTIVES This review summarizes a presentation from a symposium that discussed the types and causes of sexual dysfunction at key times in women's lives, focusing on the relationship between iron deficiency and sexual dysfunction. METHODS The symposium was held at the XV Annual European Urogynaecological Association Congress, Antibes, France, in October 2022. Symposium content was identified through literature searches of PubMed. Original research, review articles, and Cochrane analyses discussing sexual dysfunction in association with iron deficiency/anemia were included. RESULTS Iron deficiency in women is commonly caused by abnormal uterine bleeding, but women may develop iron deficiency anemia (IDA) because of increased iron needs or reduced iron intake/absorption. Treatment with oral iron supplementation has been shown to improve sexual function in women with IDA. Ferrous sulphate is considered as a standard of care for oral iron treatment; prolonged-release iron formulations have improved tolerability, enabling lower doses and better tolerability. CONCLUSION IDA and sexual dysfunction are related, so the identification of sexual dysfunction or iron deficiency in a woman should prompt an investigation of the other condition. Testing for iron deficiency is an inexpensive and simple step that can be routinely included in the workup of women with sexual dysfunction. Once identified, IDA and sexual dysfunction in women should be treated and followed to optimize quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Serati
- Urogynaecology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Montserrat Espuña-Pons
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Anna Padoa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Assaf Harofe Medical Center, 7033001 Tsrifin, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801 Tel Aviv, Israel
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11
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Ye L, Knox B, Hickey M. Management of Menopause Symptoms and Quality of Life during the Menopause Transition. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2022; 51:817-836. [PMID: 36244695 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Some women experience bothersome symptoms around the time of menopause that may have a negative impact on their quality of life and prompt them to seek treatments. Menopausal hormone therapy was historically the treatment of choice. However, medical contraindications and personal preference for nonhormonal therapy have prompted the evaluation of a range of nonhormonal pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies. This review provides an update focusing on the latest evidence-based approach for the management of bothersome symptoms of menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louie Ye
- The Royal Women's Hospital, 20 Flemington Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia; The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and the Royal Women's Hospital, Lv 7 20 Flemington Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Benita Knox
- The Royal Women's Hospital, 20 Flemington Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Martha Hickey
- The Royal Women's Hospital, 20 Flemington Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia; The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and the Royal Women's Hospital, Lv 7 20 Flemington Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.
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12
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Raguindin PF, Cardona I, Muka T, Lambrinoudaki I, Gebhard C, Franco OH, Marques‐Vidal P, Glisic M. Does reproductive stage impact cardiovascular disease risk factors? Results from a population-based cohort in Lausanne (CoLaus study). Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 97:568-580. [PMID: 35377481 PMCID: PMC9790265 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Menopause has been associated with adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk profile, yet it is unclear whether the changes in CVD risk factors differ by reproductive stage independently of underlying ageing trajectories. DESIGN The CoLaus study is a prospective population-based cohort study in Lausanne, Switzerland. PATIENTS We used data from women at baseline and follow-up (mean: 5.6 ± 0.5 years) from 2003 to 2012 who did not use hormone therapy. We classified women into (i) premenopausal, (ii) menopausal transition, (iii) early (≤5 years) and (iv) late (>5 years) postmenopausal by comparing their menstruation status at baseline and follow-up. MEASUREMENTS We measured fasting lipids, glucose and cardiovascular inflammatory markers. We used repeated measures (linear mixed models) for longitudinal analysis, using premenopausal women as a reference category. We adjusted analyses for age, medications and lifestyle factors. RESULTS We used the data from 1710 women aged 35-75 years. Longitudinal analysis showed that the changes in CVD risk factors were not different in the other three menopausal categories compared to premenopausal women. When age was used as a predictor variable and adjusted for menopause status, most CVD risk factors increased, while interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β decreased with advancing age. CONCLUSION The current study suggests that women have a worsening cardiovascular risk profile as they age, and although menopausal women may have higher levels of cardiovascular risk factors compared to premenopausal women at any given time, the 5-year changes in cardiovascular risk factors may not depend on the reproductive stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Francis Raguindin
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic ResearchNottwilSwitzerland
- Graduate School for Health SciencesUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Isabel Cardona
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Taulant Muka
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aretaieio HospitalNational and Kapodistrian University of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Department of Nuclear MedicineUniversity Hospital ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Oscar H. Franco
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Pedro Marques‐Vidal
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV)University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Marija Glisic
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM)University of BernBernSwitzerland
- Swiss Paraplegic ResearchNottwilSwitzerland
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13
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Changes in satisfaction with female genital self-image and sexual function after a Qigong exercise intervention in Spanish postmenopausal women: a randomized-controlled trial. Menopause 2022; 29:693-699. [PMID: 35446303 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the effectiveness of a Qigong exercise program on satisfaction with female genital self-image and female sexual function in postmenopausal Spanish women. METHODS A total of 49 women were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 22) that carried out training based on Qigong exercises for 12 weeks and a control group (n = 27) that did not carry out any type of intervention. Female genital self-image was measured through the Female Genital Self-Image Scale and female sexual function through the Female Sexual Function Index; both variables were measured before and just after the intervention. RESULTS Results showed that women who participated in the Qigong exercise program showed significant improvements with respect to female genital self-image, as well as in the domains of desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction, and pain and the total score of the Female Sexual Function Index, but, on the contrary, were not found in the orgasm domain. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that Qigong has the potential to improve female genital self-image and female sexual function among postmenopausal Spanish women.
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Charlton C, Mani RR, Chinnappan S, Balaraman AK, Muthusamy T, Paranjothy C, Suresh D, Krishnan S, Lokhotiya K, Kodiveri Muthukaliannan G, Baxi S, Jayaraj R. Bibliometric and Density Visualisation Mapping Analysis of Domestic Violence in Australia Research Output 1984-2019. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084837. [PMID: 35457702 PMCID: PMC9029041 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Domestic violence is highly prevalent in Australia and has serious and complex impacts. This study aimed to analyse research outputs on domestic violence in Australia from the period of 1984 to 2019. Articles relevant to domestic violence in Australia that met specified inclusion criteria were retrieved using the Scopus database. Bibliometric analysis of the output was conducted to examine trends in publications. A trend of an increase in publications relating to domestic violence in Australia over time was identified, with the majority published in institutions located in densely populated capital cities. Significant diversity was found in the subject matter of highly cited articles, reflecting the far-reaching impacts of domestic violence. The increase in social attention to domestic violence over time was reflected in an increase in publications. Future research would benefit from examining trends in the reporting of domestic violence, and analysing the effectiveness of interventions for perpetrators and victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Charlton
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT 0810, Australia;
| | - Ravishankar Ram Mani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University Kuala Lumpur (South Wing), Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.R.M.); (S.C.); (A.K.B.)
| | - Sasikala Chinnappan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University Kuala Lumpur (South Wing), Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.R.M.); (S.C.); (A.K.B.)
| | - Ashok Kumar Balaraman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University Kuala Lumpur (South Wing), Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.R.M.); (S.C.); (A.K.B.)
| | - Thangavel Muthusamy
- Research and Development Wing, Sri Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chromepet, Chennai 600044, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | | | - Deepa Suresh
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
| | - Sunil Krishnan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA;
| | - Kartik Lokhotiya
- Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India; (K.L.); (G.K.M.)
| | | | - Siddhartha Baxi
- Genesis Care Gold Coast Radiation Oncologist, John Flynn Hospital, Tugun, QLD 4224, Australia;
| | - Rama Jayaraj
- Clinical Sciences, Northern Territory Institute of Research and Training, Darwin, NT 0909, Australia
- Correspondence:
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15
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Stanzel KA, Hammarberg K, Nguyen T, Fisher J. 'They should come forward with the information': menopause-related health literacy and health care experiences among Vietnamese-born women in Melbourne, Australia. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:601-616. [PMID: 32228051 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1740176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Health literacy refers to an individual's capacity to access, understand, evaluate and use health information to make well informed health-related decision to maintain and promote optimal health. Low health literacy is linked with worse health outcomes and is more common in people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds and from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and among people with limited education. Peri-menopausal and postmenopausal health behaviour predicts health in later life. This qualitative study was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. The aim of this study was to explore menopause-related health literacy and experiences with menopause-related health care among Vietnamese-born women who had immigrated to Australia as adults.Design: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with women aged between 45 and 60 years and who were either in the peri or postmenopausal phase. Transcripts were analysed thematically.Results: A total of 12 women were interviewed. Participants viewed menopause as a natural event and obtained most of their menopause-related information from family and friends. Limited English language proficiency affected their capacity to access, understand, evaluate and use menopause-related health information. They identified their Vietnamese speaking General Practitioners (GPs) as a reliable source of health information, but 'shyness' prevented them from asking questions about menopause and they suggested that GPs need to initiate menopause-related health conversations.Conclusion: Low menopause-related health literacy among Vietnamese-born immigrant women may limit their opportunities to access information about and benefit from menopause-related health-promoting behaviours. Access to menopause-related health information in relevant community languages is essential to support immigrant women to make well informed menopause-related health decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Stanzel
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Trang Nguyen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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16
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Kracht CL, Romain JS, Hardee JC, Santoro N, Redman LM, Marlatt KL. “It just seems like people are talking about menopause, but nobody has a solution”: A qualitative exploration of menopause experiences and preferences for weight management among Black women. Maturitas 2022; 157:16-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Marlatt KL, Pitynski-Miller DR, Gavin KM, Moreau KL, Melanson EL, Santoro N, Kohrt WM. Body composition and cardiometabolic health across the menopause transition. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2022; 30:14-27. [PMID: 34932890 PMCID: PMC8972960 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Every year, 2 million women reach menopause in the United States, and they may spend 40% or more of their life in a postmenopausal state. In the years immediately preceding menopause-known as the menopause transition (or perimenopause)-changes in hormones and body composition increase a woman's overall cardiometabolic risk. In this narrative review, we summarize the changes in weight, body composition, and body fat distribution, as well as the changes in energy intake, energy expenditure, and other cardiometabolic risk factors (lipid profile, glucose metabolism, sleep health, and vascular function), that occur during the menopause transition. We also discuss the benefits of lifestyle interventions in women in the earlier stages of menopause before these detrimental changes occur. Finally, we discuss how to include perimenopausal women in research studies so that women across the life-span are adequately represented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara L. Marlatt
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Dori R. Pitynski-Miller
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Eastern Colorado VA Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Gavin
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Eastern Colorado VA Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Kerrie L. Moreau
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Eastern Colorado VA Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Edward L. Melanson
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Eastern Colorado VA Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Denver, Colorado, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Wendy M. Kohrt
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Eastern Colorado VA Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Denver, Colorado, USA
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18
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He H, Pan L, Liu F, Ren X, Cui Z, Pa L, Zhao J, Wang D, Du J, Wang H, Wang X, Peng X, Yu C, Wang Y, Shan G. The Mediation Effect of Body Composition on the Association Between Menopause and Hyperuricemia: Evidence From China National Health Survey. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:879384. [PMID: 35757401 PMCID: PMC9226682 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.879384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive factors have been demonstrated to be associated with hyperuricemia. Body composition is an essential determinant influencing serum uric acid (SUA), but it is largely unknown whether increased SUA was influenced by changed body composition during the menopausal transition. As a secondary analysis of China National Health Survey from 2012-to 2017, this study included 18,997 women aged 20 to 80. Menarche age and menopause information were collected by questionnaire interview. Body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BFP), fat mass index (FMI), and fat-free mass index (FFMI) were used as body composition indexes. Hyperuricemia was defined as SUA higher than 360μmol/L (approximately 6 mg/dl). Mediation analysis was performed to explore the direct and indirect effects of menopause on hyperuricemia. A 1:2 age-matched case-control data set (n=6202) was designed to control age-related confounders and was used in multivariable analyses. After adjustment of covariates, postmenopausal women had 14.08 (10.89-17.27) μmol/L higher SUA than their premenopausal counterparts. Overweight/obesity and higher levels of BFP, FMI, and FFMI were all found to be positively associated with hyperuricemia. The mediation analysis showed that the total effect of menopause on hyperuricemia was positive, but was substantially mediated by body composition indexes. Forty-five percent of the total effect can be attributed to the indirect effect mediated by BMI (OR for the natural indirect effect (NIE): 1.09, 95%CI: 1.04-1.13), and over 80% mediated by BFP (OR for NIE: 1.23, 95%CI: 1.16-1.29). However, FFMI did not present the mediated role in the association (OR for NIE: 0.99, 95%CI: 0.96-1.02). The findings revealed that body composition, especially the fat mass indexes, significantly mediated the association between menopause and hyperuricemia. The role of body composition as mediator constitutes clinical and public health significance that should be recognized and considered in healthcare for women experiencing their menopause transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijing He
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Li Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Shaanxi Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaolan Ren
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ze Cui
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Hebei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Lize Pa
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Urumqi, China
| | - Jingbo Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dingming Wang
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, China
| | - Jianwei Du
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Haikou, China
| | - Hailing Wang
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hohhot, China
| | - Xianghua Wang
- Integrated Office, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Xia Peng
- Department of Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control, Yunnan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Kunming, China
| | - Chengdong Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guangliang Shan
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Guangliang Shan,
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19
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Singh P, Covassin N, Marlatt K, Gadde KM, Heymsfield SB. Obesity, Body Composition, and Sex Hormones: Implications for Cardiovascular Risk. Compr Physiol 2021; 12:2949-2993. [PMID: 34964120 PMCID: PMC10068688 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c210014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be the leading cause of death in adults, highlighting the need to develop novel strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risk. The advancing obesity epidemic is now threatening the gains in CVD risk reduction brought about by contemporary pharmaceutical and surgical interventions. There are sex differences in the development and outcomes of CVD; premenopausal women have significantly lower CVD risk than men of the same age, but women lose this advantage as they transition to menopause, an observation suggesting potential role of sex hormones in determining CVD risk. Clear differences in obesity and regional fat distribution among men and women also exist. While men have relatively high fat in the abdominal area, women tend to distribute a larger proportion of their fat in the lower body. Considering that regional body fat distribution is an important CVD risk factor, differences in how men and women store their body fat may partly contribute to sex-based alterations in CVD risk as well. This article presents findings related to the role of obesity and sex hormones in determining CVD risk. Evidence for the role of sex hormones in determining body composition in men and women is also presented. Lastly, the clinical potential for using sex hormones to alter body composition and reduce CVD risk is outlined. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:1-45, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prachi Singh
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Kara Marlatt
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Kishore M Gadde
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Steven B Heymsfield
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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20
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Thomas YT, Newman CB, Faynshtayn NG, McGregor AJ. Exploring Obesity as a Gendered Contagion: Impact on Lifestyle Interventions to Improve Cardiovascular Health. Clin Ther 2021; 44:23-32. [PMID: 34937663 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle interventions such as physical activity and diet are important components for reducing the risk of obesity. Data suggest that lifestyle choices differ between men and women, as well as in groups. The purpose of this review was to explore whether obesity can be considered as a gendered social contagion, associated with differences in lifestyle and response to lifestyle interventions in men and women. FINDINGS There are important sex-based differences of obesity to consider. There is evidence that peers have an influence on lifestyle preferences such as physical activity level and dietary habits, but the evidence is inconclusive if the differences exist between men and women. Similarly, data from lifestyle intervention studies are not conclusive whether there are differences between men and women. There is not enough evidence for the notion that obesity is a gendered social contagion. IMPLICATIONS More research is needed to understand differences in lifestyle and lifestyle interventions between men and women, especially across the life span, which could have profound public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ynhi T Thomas
- Henry J.N. Taub Department of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Connie B Newman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Alyson J McGregor
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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21
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Voedisch AJ, Dunsmoor-Su R, Kasirsky J. Menopause: A Global Perspective and Clinical Guide for Practice. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2021; 64:528-554. [PMID: 34323232 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Perimenopause and menopause are a time of great transition for women-physically, mentally, and emotionally. Symptoms of the menopause transition and beyond impact women worldwide. Unfortunately, physician knowledge and comfort with addressing menopausal concerns vary greatly, limiting the support physicians provide to women in need. This review aims to increase physician understanding of the epidemiology, physiology, symptomology, and treatment options available for perimenopausal and menopausal women. Our goal is to empower physicians to educate and treat their patients to reduce the negative impact of perimenopausal changes and enhance overall well-being for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Voedisch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Family Planning, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California
| | | | - Jennifer Kasirsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Dubai, UAE
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22
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Kałużna M, Nomejko A, Słowińska A, Wachowiak-Ochmańska K, Pikosz K, Ziemnicka K, Ruchała M. Lower sexual satisfaction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic syndrome. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1035-1044. [PMID: 34319905 PMCID: PMC8428045 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multi-symptom disorder linked with a range of metabolic and hormonal disturbances. Psychological and sexual aspects of PCOS also need to be considered. OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY This study aimed to assess sexual satisfaction (SS) in PCOS patients and eumenorrheic controls (CON). The relationships between SS, depressive symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and hormonal and metabolic profiles were evaluated. METHODS In this study, 190 patients with PCOS (mean age 26.34 ± 5.47 years) and 197 age-matched CON (mean age 27.12 ± 4.97 years) were enrolled. All subjects completed Polish version of the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ), WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-Revised (CESD-R) questionnaire. Fasting blood samples were collected to assess hormonal, lipid, and glucose profiles. Anthropometric measures were collected. Metabolic syndrome (MS) was evaluated according to the IDF-AHA/NHLBI criteria. RESULTS Patients with PCOS and MS had lower SS vs non-MS-PCOS. There were no significant differences in the level of SS, presence of depressive symptoms, or HRQoL between PCOS and CON (P > 0.05). Negative correlations were found between the SS level and BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-height ratio in PCOS women. However, overweight or obese PCOS women did not differ in SS levels vs normal-weight PCOS patients. The social dimension of WHOQOL-BREF was the only significant predictor of SS in PCOS patients. CONCLUSIONS SS in PCOS women appears to be undisturbed. However, MS in PCOS patients could negatively influence SS. The level of SS should be assessed in PCOS women, especially if MS is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Kałużna
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Correspondence should be addressed to M Kałużna:
| | - Agnieszka Nomejko
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Pedagogical and Historical Sciences, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Słowińska
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Pedagogical and Historical Sciences, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Pikosz
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ziemnicka
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marek Ruchała
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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23
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Challenges in menopausal care of immigrant women. Maturitas 2021; 150:49-60. [PMID: 34112552 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review summarises the available evidence about how migrant women perceive and manage their menopausal and postmenopausal health and their experiences with healthcare services; and healthcare providers' views about delivering menopause-related healthcare to migrant women. Medline, PsychInfo, Embase and Cinahl were searched for peer-reviewed papers published in English. Thirty-one papers were identified reporting on 25 studies. Twenty-three studies reported on investigations examining migrant women's perceptions about menopause, their self-care strategies and their experiences with menopause-related healthcare. Only two papers reported on healthcare providers' views about providing menopause-related healthcare to migrant women. Most studies with migrant women found that their experiences of menopause and self-care strategies were culturally informed; that migrant women are unlikely to seek out menopause-related healthcare or to initiate conversations about menopause with their healthcare providers; and that most of those who seek menopause-related healthcare are disappointed with the care they receive. Studies assessing menopause-related knowledge found that many migrant women have limited knowledge about menopause and postmenopausal health, and that family and friends are their most common sources of information about menopause. Although healthcare providers were aware that migrant women use traditional remedies to manage their menopausal health and are likely to source menopause-related information from within their communities, they were reluctant to actively promote menopause-related health information due to consultation time constraints and lack of confidence in culturally competent communication. More research with healthcare providers is needed to improve understanding about barriers and facilitators to provide comprehensive menopause-related care to migrant women.
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24
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Min C, Yoo DM, Wee JH, Lee HJ, Choi HG. High-Intensity Physical Activity with High Serum Vitamin D Levels is Associated with a Low Prevalence of Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: A Population-Based Study. Osteoporos Int 2021; 32:883-891. [PMID: 33230576 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-020-05746-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We found that combination of high-intensity PA and high 25(OH)D levels was associated with low prevalence of osteoporosis/osteopenia. In addition, the prevalence of osteoporosis was lower in the low PA with high 25(OH)D levels than in the moderate or high PA with low 25(OH)D levels. INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to explore the association of physical activity (PA) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels with osteopenia/osteoporosis. METHODS The Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2008 to 2011 were used in this study. Data from 6868 individuals were selected. Each individual's level of PA was classified as 'low', 'moderate', or 'high'. Serum 25(OH)D levels were classified as 'low' or 'high'. Accordingly, the combined PA and 25(OH)D groups were divided into 6 groups. Bone mineral density (BMD) was classified as 'normal (T score ≥ - 1.0)', 'osteopenia (- 2.5 < T score < - 1.0)' or 'osteoporosis (T score ≤ - 2.5)'. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using multinomial logistic regression models. RESULTS The AORs (95% CIs) for osteopenia were 0.64 (0.50-0.83) in the high PA with high 25(OH)D group and 0.69 (0.53-0.88) in the moderate PA with high 25(OH)D group. The AORs (95% CIs) for osteoporosis were increased in the groups in ascending order as follows: high PA with high 25(OH)D (0.40 [0.28-0.57]) < moderate PA with high 25(OH)D (0.47 [0.33-0.66]) < low PA with high 25(OH)D (0.59 [0.42-0.83]) < high PA with low 25(OH)D (0.70 [0.49-1.00]) < moderate PA with low 25(OH)D (0.76 [0.53-1.07]) < low PA with low 25(OH)D. This result was consistent in males but not evident in females. CONCLUSION We suggest that the combination of high-intensity PA and high 25(OH)D levels is positively associated with high BMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Min
- Hallym Data Science Laboratory, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
- Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - D M Yoo
- Hallym Data Science Laboratory, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
| | - J H Wee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
| | - H-J Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea
| | - H G Choi
- Hallym Data Science Laboratory, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, Korea.
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Association between waist-hip ratio and coronary artery calcification in postmenopausal women. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 27:1010-1014. [PMID: 32852452 PMCID: PMC7458085 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Many studies have reported that body composition might be associated with cardiovascular disease, but the issue has not been fully investigated in postmenopausal women. Methods: This retrospective study comprised 582 postmenopausal women without a history of cardiovascular disease who visited the Health Promotion Center between May 2008 and February 2018. All women were screened for body fat composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis and for degree of coronary artery calcification (CAC) by multidetector computed tomography. In addition, multivariate analysis, integrated discrimination improvement, and category-free net reclassification improvement were performed. Results: The level of triglycerides, and the waist-hip ratio (WHR) in participants with CAC (coronary artery calcium score [CACS] > 0) were higher than in participants with a CACS of zero points. When the participants were stratified into four groups according to WHR, participants with CAC (CACS > 0) increased significantly as WHR quartile increased. A multivariate analysis showed that older age (odds ratio [OR]: 2.539; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.524-4.230; P < 0.001), triglyceride level (OR: 1.005; 95% CI: 1.002-1.008; P = 0.003), WHR (OR: 1.103; 95% CI: 1.018-1.195; P = 0.017), and history of hypertension (OR: 2.701; 95% CI: 1.715-4.253; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with CAC. The Brier score upon adding WHR to a clinical model was lower than that of the clinical model without WHR. Adding WHR to a clinical model better predicted CAC than a clinical model without WHR (C index: 0.761, 95% CI: 0.724-0.795, P < 0.001; net reclassification improvement: 0.195, P = 0.037; integrated discrimination improvement: 1.02%, P = 0.043). Conclusions: In asymptomatic postmenopausal women, WHR as measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis was significantly associated with coronary atherosclerosis, supplementing information of usual clinical markers. Hence, WHR might be appropriate as a marker for early atherosclerosis.
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Karlamangla AS, Shieh A, Greendale GA. Hormones and bone loss across the menopause transition. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2021; 115:401-417. [PMID: 33706956 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The menopause transition is a critical period for bone health in women, with rapid losses in bone mass and strength occurring over an approximately 3-year window bracketing the date of the final menstrual period. The onset of the rapid bone loss phase is preceded by large changes in sex steroid hormones, measurements of which may be clinically useful in predicting the onset of the rapid loss phase and identifying the women who will lose the most bone mass during this rapid bone loss phase. Here we summarize recent and new findings related to the ability of sex hormone levels to (1) determine if a woman in her 5th decade of life is about to enter or has already entered the rapid phase of bone loss, and (2) if she will lose more than the average amount of bone mass over the menopause transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun S Karlamangla
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Albert Shieh
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Gail A Greendale
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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de Vries Lentsch S, Rubio-Beltrán E, MaassenVanDenBrink A. Changing levels of sex hormones and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) during a woman's life: Implications for the efficacy and safety of novel antimigraine medications. Maturitas 2021; 145:73-77. [PMID: 33541566 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Migraine is a neurovascular disorder that is three times more prevalent in women than in men and represents a large socio-economic burden. Therefore, the development of new preventive medications is an urgent matter. Currently, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a neuropeptide released from trigeminal fibres, is an important target for migraine treatment. Accordingly, antibodies directed against CGRP or its receptor, as well as small-molecule CGRP receptor antagonists, have been developed for the prophylactic and acute treatment of migraine. Results from clinical phase III trials show a significant decrease in migraine days and relatively mild side-effects. However, CGRP is not only present in the trigeminal nerve, but it is also abundant in perivascular nerve fibres. Moreover, CGRP levels and hormones vary between sexes and during different life stages, and hormones affect CGRP, with a seemingly greater role for CGRP in females. In this review we discuss whether these aspects could be associated with differences in response and efficacy of drugs interfering with the CGRP pathway. Furthermore, CGRP has been described as playing a protective role in ischemic events, and CGRP seems to play a larger role in cardiac ischemic events in female patients. As cardiovascular risk is increased in female migraine patients and also increases significantly in females after menopause, further research into the risk of blocking CGRP in these patients is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone de Vries Lentsch
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands; Div. of Pharmacology, Dept. of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eloísa Rubio-Beltrán
- Div. of Pharmacology, Dept. of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Antoinette MaassenVanDenBrink
- Div. of Pharmacology, Dept. of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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El Khoudary SR, Venugopal V, Manson JE, Brooks MM, Santoro N, Black DM, Harman M, Naftolin F, Hodis HN, Brinton EA, Miller VM, Taylor HS, Budoff MJ. Heart fat and carotid artery atherosclerosis progression in recently menopausal women: impact of menopausal hormone therapy: The KEEPS trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 27:255-262. [PMID: 32015261 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Heart fat deposition has been linked to atherosclerosis, and both accelerate after menopause. Hormone therapy (HT) may differentially slow heart fat deposition and progression of atherosclerosis, depending on the specific HT agent or its route of administration. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of different HT agents, oral and transdermal, on associations between heart fat accumulation and atherosclerosis progression, measured by carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), in recently menopausal women from the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) trial. METHODS KEEPS was a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the effects of 0.45 mg/d oral conjugated equine estrogens (o-CEE) or 50 mcg/d transdermal 17β-estradiol (t-E2), compared with placebo, on 48 months progression of CIMT. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and paracardial adipose tissue (PAT) volumes were quantified by computed tomography. RESULTS In all, 467 women (mean age [SD] 52.7 [2.5]; 78.2% White; 30% on o-CEE, 30.8% t-E2, 39.2% placebo) with heart fat volumes and CIMT at baseline and 48 months were included. EAT and PAT changes were not associated with CIMT progression; however, the assigned treatment significantly modified the association between PAT (but not EAT) change and CIMT progression. In the o-CEE group, adjusted CIMT progression was 12.66 μm (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.80, 23.52) lower than in t-E2 group (P = 0.02), and 10.09 μm (95% CI 0.79, 19.39) lower than in placebo group (P = 0.03), as per 1-SD increase in PAT. CONCLUSION Compared with t-E2, o-CEE appears to slow down the adverse effect of increasing PAT on progression of atherosclerosis. Whether this beneficial association is specific to CEE or to the oral route of CEE administration is unclear and should be assessed further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - JoAnn E Manson
- Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Dennis M Black
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Frederick Naftolin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Howard N Hodis
- Atherosclerosis Research Unit, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
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Soares AG, Kilpi F, Fraser A, Nelson SM, Sattar N, Welsh PI, Tilling K, Lawlor DA. Longitudinal changes in reproductive hormones through the menopause transition in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Sci Rep 2020; 10:21258. [PMID: 33277550 PMCID: PMC7718240 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77871-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We characterised changes in reproductive hormones-LH, FSH, SHBG and AMH-by chronological age and time around the menopause (reproductive age) in mid-life women and explored their associations with lifestyle and reproductive factors. We used data from 1608 women from a UK cohort who had repeat hormone measures and experienced a natural menopause. Multilevel models were used to assess: (i) changes in hormones (outcomes) by reproductive age and chronological age (these age variables being the key exposures) and (ii) associations of body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol intake, parity and age at menarche with changes in hormones by reproductive age. Both LH and FSH increased until ~ 5 and 7 years postmenopause, respectively, after which they declined, but not to premenopausal levels. SHBG decreased slightly until ~ 4 years postmenopause and increased thereafter. AMH decreased markedly before menopause and remained low subsequently. For all hormones, the best fitting models included both reproductive and chronological age. BMI, smoking and parity were associated with hormone changes; e.g., higher BMI was associated with slower increase in LH and FSH and decrease in AMH. Reproductive and chronological age contribute to changes in LH, FSH, SHBG and AMH across mid-life in women, and BMI, smoking and parity are associated with these hormone changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Goncalves Soares
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK.
| | - Fanny Kilpi
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Abigail Fraser
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
- Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
| | - Scott M Nelson
- Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Naveed Sattar
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul I Welsh
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kate Tilling
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
- Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
| | - Deborah A Lawlor
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
- Bristol NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
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Coping with menopause – Measures that women can take. ENFERMERIA CLINICA 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcli.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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El Khoudary SR, Aggarwal B, Beckie TM, Hodis HN, Johnson AE, Langer RD, Limacher MC, Manson JE, Stefanick ML, Allison MA. Menopause Transition and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Implications for Timing of Early Prevention: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2020; 142:e506-e532. [PMID: 33251828 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000000912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 326] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, who have a notable increase in the risk for this disease after menopause and typically develop coronary heart disease several years later than men. This observation led to the hypothesis that the menopause transition (MT) contributes to the increase in coronary heart disease risk. Over the past 20 years, longitudinal studies of women traversing menopause have contributed significantly to our understanding of the relationship between the MT and CVD risk. By following women over this period, researchers have been able to disentangle chronological and ovarian aging with respect to CVD risk. These studies have documented distinct patterns of sex hormone changes, as well as adverse alterations in body composition, lipids and lipoproteins, and measures of vascular health over the MT, which can increase a woman's risk of developing CVD postmenopausally. The reported findings underline the significance of the MT as a time of accelerating CVD risk, thereby emphasizing the importance of monitoring women's health during midlife, a critical window for implementing early intervention strategies to reduce CVD risk. Notably, the 2011 American Heart Association guidelines for CVD prevention in women (the latest sex-specific guidelines to date) did not include information now available about the contribution of the MT to increased CVD in women. Therefore, there is a crucial need to discuss the contemporary literature on menopause and CVD risk with the intent of increasing awareness of the significant adverse cardiometabolic health-related changes accompanying midlife and the MT. This scientific statement provides an up-to-date synthesis of the existing data on the MT and how it relates to CVD.
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Rosen NO, Corsini-Munt S, Dubé JP, Boudreau C, Muise A. Partner Responses to Low Desire: Associations With Sexual, Relational, and Psychological Well-Being Among Couples Coping With Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. J Sex Med 2020; 17:2168-2180. [PMID: 32978067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experience of distressing low sexual interest/arousal-female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD)-is prevalent in women of all ages and is associated with poorer sexual, relationship, and psychological well-being than women without this difficulty. Women who are partnered are almost 5 times more likely to be distressed by low desire and to receive a diagnosis of FSIAD than unpartnered women, indicating that interpersonal factors are highly relevant, although largely neglected in past research. AIM In a dyadic cross-sectional and longitudinal study, we examined whether partner responses to FSIAD were associated with the sexual, relationship, and psychological well-being of couples, and whether any effects persisted 1 year later. METHODS Women diagnosed with FSIAD (N = 89) completed a validated measure of perceived partner positive vs negative responses to their low sexual interest/arousal and their partners reported on their own responses, as well as measures of sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, sexual distress, and anxiety. 1 year later, couples (N = 66) completed the outcome measures again. Data were analyzed according to the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. OUTCOMES Outcomes included were the Sexual Desire Inventory-Solitary and Partner-Focused Subscales; Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction; Female Sexual Distress Scale; Couple Satisfaction Index; and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Short-Form. RESULTS When women with FSIAD perceived more positive partner responses (eg, warm, supportive, compassionate) than negative responses (eg, hostile, unsupportive, indifferent), they were more satisfied with the relationship and they and their partners reported lower anxiety. When partners reported more positive than negative responses, they had greater relationship and sexual satisfaction and lower sexual distress and anxiety. Exploratory analyses revealed that women's perceptions of their partners' responses accounted for the link between partners' own responses and women's relationship satisfaction and anxiety. Partner responses did not predict any change in outcomes over time. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Findings support interpersonal conceptualizations of FSIAD and may inform the development of future couple-based interventions. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This study is one of the few dyadic investigations of FSIAD, as diagnosed via a clinical interview. Significant associations were only observed cross-sectionally, limiting causal conclusions. There was limited power to detect longitudinal effects. CONCLUSION More positive responses to women's low sexual interest/arousal by partners is linked to better adjustment among couples affected by FSIAD. Rosen NO, Corsini-Munt S, Dubé JP, et al. Partner Responses to Low Desire: Associations With Sexual, Relational, and Psychological Well-Being Among Couples Coping With Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. J Sex Med 2020;17:2168-2180.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Life Sciences Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | | | - Justin P Dubé
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Life Sciences Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Carmen Boudreau
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Life Sciences Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Amy Muise
- Department of Psychology, York University, Behavioural Science Building, Toronto, ON, Canada
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A critical appraisal of vasomotor symptom assessment tools used in clinical trials evaluating hormone therapy compared to placebo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 26:1334-1341. [PMID: 31567867 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) have been consistently reported as the leading predictor of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among menopausal women, and the strongest indication for treatment. The North American Menopause Society endorses the use of oral estrogen for the treatment of VMS based on a Cochrane meta-analysis. The Cochrane review concludes that oral hormone therapy reduces the frequency and severity of VMS. The objective of this review is to critically appraise the outcome measures used in these clinical trials to evaluate whether there is adequate evidence that oral hormone therapy improves HRQOL. METHODS Each trial in the 2004 Cochrane review of oral hormone therapy for the management of VMS was evaluated with respect to study design, outcome measures, and method of analysis. RESULTS Twenty-four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials were appraised. Six trials were excluded from the Cochrane meta-analysis due to inadequate reporting of outcome measures. Of the remaining trials, 15 trials assessed only symptom frequency and/or severity. One trial used a subscale of the General Health Questionnaire. Two trials used the Greene Climacteric Scale, a validated outcome measure in menopausal women, to directly assess the impact of hormone therapy on HRQOL. Both studies showed an improvement in HRQOL in the hormone-treated group, although the sample size was small (n = 118) and the effect was modest. CONCLUSION Although oral hormone therapy improves VMS scores, there is a paucity of evidence on whether it improves HRQOL in menopausal women. Future studies using validated, patient-reported outcome measures that directly assess HRQOL are needed.
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Cortés YI, Barinas-Mitchell E, Suder Egnot N, Bhasin S, Jasuja R, Santoro N, Thurston RC. Associations of Endogenous Sex Hormones with Carotid Plaque Burden and Characteristics in Midlife Women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5695920. [PMID: 31900485 PMCID: PMC7077951 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endogenous sex hormones may be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Carotid plaque characteristics, such as echogenicity, an ultrasound measure that reflects plaque composition, may identify unstable plaques that are more likely to rupture, precipitating a CVD event. However, few studies have considered sex steroids in relation to carotid plaque and its characteristics. OBJECTIVE To evaluate estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and free T (FT) in relation to carotid plaque in women. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In MsHeart, a cross-sectional study of 304 women aged 40 to 60 years, participants underwent a carotid artery ultrasound assessment. The current analysis included MsHeart participants with carotid plaque (n = 141, 46%). E1, E2, and T were assayed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry; FT was estimated using ensemble allostery models. Regression models were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and CVD risk factors. MAIN OUTCOMES Carotid plaque burden (number of plaques, total plaque area [TPA]) and characteristics (calcification, echogenicity) were determined using semi-automated software. RESULTS SHBG was inversely related to TPA (odds ratio [OR] 0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21, 0.74; multivariable) and higher FTs were associated with greater TPA (OR 2.89; 95% CI 1.31, 6.37; multivariable). Higher E1 was related to echogenicity (OR 2.31; 95% CI 1.26, 4.33; multivariable), characteristic of more stable plaque. CONCLUSIONS SHBG and FT are related to TPA while E1 is related to plaque echogenicity, suggesting these hormones have different roles in the development of carotid plaque. Our findings highlight the importance of sex hormones in the development of carotid plaque in midlife women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamnia I Cortés
- School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Yamnia I. Cortés, PhD, MPH, FNP-BC, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Nursing, Carrington Hall, Campus Box 7460, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7460. E-mail:
| | - Emma Barinas-Mitchell
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Shalender Bhasin
- Research Program in Men’s Health: Aging and Metabolism, Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ravi Jasuja
- Research Program in Men’s Health: Aging and Metabolism, Boston Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Function Promoting, LLC, Waltham, Massachusetts
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado
| | - Rebecca C Thurston
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Marlatt KL, Redman LM, Beyl RA, Smith SR, Champagne CM, Yi F, Lovejoy JC. Racial differences in body composition and cardiometabolic risk during the menopause transition: a prospective, observational cohort study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 222:365.e1-365.e18. [PMID: 31610152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.09.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity disproportionately affects more women than men. The loss of ovarian function during the menopause transition coincides with weight gain, increases in abdominal adiposity, and impaired metabolic health. Racial differences in obesity prevalence that results from the menopause transition are not well understood. OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study was to assess longitudinal changes in body composition and cardiometabolic risk among black and white women during the menopausal transition. STUDY DESIGN In a secondary analysis of a prospective, observational cohort study (the Healthy Transitions study), 161 women ≥43 years old with a body mass index of 20-40 kg/m2 and who had not yet transitioned through menopause were enrolled at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. Women were seen annually for body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, for abdominal adipose tissue distribution by computed tomography, for sex steroid hormones, and for cardiometabolic risk factors that include fasting glucose, insulin, and lipids. Surrogate measures of insulin sensitivity were also calculated. RESULTS Ninety-four women (25 black, 69 white) transitioned through menopause and were included within the analyses. At menopause onset, black women weighed more (77.8±3.0 vs 70.8±1.8 kg) and had a higher systolic (125±16 vs 118±14 mm Hg) and diastolic (80±8 vs 74±7 mm Hg) blood pressure compared with white women (all P≤.05). No other differences in body composition, sex steroid hormones, or cardiometabolic risk factors were observed at menopause onset. Before menopause, white women gained significant weight (3 kg), total body adiposity (6% percent body fat, 9% fat mass, 12% trunk fat mass) and abdominal adipose tissue (19% subcutaneous fat, 15% visceral fat, 19% total adipose tissue), which coincided with significant decreases in estradiol, sex hormone-binding globulin, and estrone sulfate and increases in follicle-stimulating hormone, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Conversely, black women had more abdominal adipose tissue before menopause, which was maintained across the menopause transition. Black women also had significant decreases in estrone sulfate and total testosterone and increases in follicle-stimulating hormone before menopause. In the postmenopausal years, abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue, total adipose tissue, follicle-stimulating hormone, total cholesterol, and low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased only in white women. CONCLUSION White women gained more abdominal adiposity during the menopause transition compared with black women, which, in part, may be due to differences in the pattern of sex steroid hormone changes between women of different racial backgrounds. The gains in abdominal adiposity in white women were observed in tandem with increased cardiometabolic risk factors. Future studies should consider comprehensive lifestyle approaches to target these increased gains in abdominal adiposity (ie, nutrition and physical activity coaching), while taking into account the potential interactions of race, body adiposity, sex steroid hormones, and their influence on cardiometabolic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robbie A Beyl
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA
| | - Steve R Smith
- Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes, Advent Health, Orlando, FL
| | | | - Fanchao Yi
- Center for Collaborative Research, Advent Health, Orlando, FL
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Stanzel KA, Hammarberg K, Fisher J. 'Not everybody is an internet person': Barriers for menopause-related health literacy among immigrant women from the Horn of Africa nations. Health Promot J Austr 2020; 32 Suppl 1:61-68. [PMID: 32009267 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Changes in health require new learning. There are increased risks of chronic noncommunicable diseases after menopause and positive health behaviour during the peri-menopausal years and beyond are crucial for a healthy postmenopausal life. In order to implement health promotion messages, women require adequate health literacy skills in order to achieve better health and access to appropriate health care. METHODS This qualitative study explored menopause-related health literacy and experiences of menopause-related health care using semi-structured interviews with women from the Horn of Africa nations who had migrated to Melbourne, Australia. RESULTS Participants viewed menopause as a normal life phase and did not see the need for accessing menopause-related information and care. Limited education, low literacy and being unfamiliar with the internet were barriers to health literacy. Participants' preferred health care providers who could converse in their first language, but regretted their lack of proactive engagement in providing menopause-related information. CONCLUSION Primary health care providers need to be aware that immigrant women from the Horn of Africa nations have poor health literacy and may be unaware of the benefits of positive health behaviours during and after menopause. Offering menopause-related health promotion opportunistically may lead to better postmenopausal health for this group of women. SO WHAT?: Health promotion and education programs codesigned with community stakeholders may be effective in engaging immigrant communities to improve menopause-related health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Stanzel
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Yare K, Woodward M. Hormone Therapy and Effects on Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease in Postmenopausal Women: Importance of Nomenclature. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 73:23-37. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-190896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Katrine Yare
- Austin Health, Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Woodward
- Austin Health, Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital, Victoria, Australia
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Stanzel KA, Hammarberg K, Fisher J. Primary healthcare providers' attitudes and beliefs about the menopause-related care needs of women who have migrated from low- and middle-income countries to Australia. Aust J Prim Health 2019; 26:88-94. [PMID: 31733659 DOI: 10.1071/py19132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Health behaviour during midlife is linked to health outcomes in older age. Primary healthcare providers (PHCPs) are ideally placed to provide health-promoting information opportunistically to women in midlife. The aim of this study was to explore PHCPs views about the menopause-related care needs of migrant women from low- and middle-income countries and what they perceive as barriers and enablers for providing this. Of the 139 PHCPs who responded to an anonymous online survey, less than one-third (29.9%) routinely offered menopause-related information during consultations with migrant women. Most agreed that short appointments times (70.8%), lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate menopause information (82.5%) and lack of confidence in providing menopause-related care (32.5%) are barriers for providing comprehensive menopause-related care to migrant women. To overcome these, a menopause-specific Medicare item number and a one-stop website with health information in community languages were suggested. These findings suggest that menopause-related care is not routinely offered by PHCPs to migrant women from low- and middle- income countries and that their capacity to do this may be improved with adequate educational and structural support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Stanzel
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia; and Corresponding author
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- Global and Women's Health, Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
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El Khoudary SR, Greendale G, Crawford SL, Avis NE, Brooks MM, Thurston RC, Karvonen-Gutierrez C, Waetjen LE, Matthews K. The menopause transition and women's health at midlife: a progress report from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Menopause 2019; 26:1213-1227. [PMID: 31568098 PMCID: PMC6784846 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our initial understanding of the menopause transition (MT) has been framed by clinical samples of women seeking treatment rather than by population-based studies. The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) initiated in 1996 with an overall goal to define the MT, to characterize its biological and psychosocial antecedents and sequelae in an ethnically and racially diverse sample of midlife women. METHODS This review summarizes the central findings of SWAN to date that can inform women and their healthcare providers about the impact of the MT and midlife aging on overall health and well-being. RESULTS SWAN characterized changes in reproductive axis and menstrual cycle patterns that informed the development of the reproductive aging staging system Staging of Reproductive Aging Workshop+10; MT-related symptoms and mental health (vasomotor symptoms, sleep complaints, psychological symptoms, cognitive performance, and urogenital and sexual health); and physiological systems and functions (cardiovascular and cardiometabolic health, bone health, physical function performance) that are influenced by the MT. SWAN demonstrated substantial interrelations among these changes and significant racial/ethnic differences in the rate and magnitude of change in multiple health indictors in midlife women. The findings point to midlife as a critical stage for adopting healthy behavior and preventive strategies. CONCLUSIONS Over the past 23 years, SWAN has advanced our understanding of the impact of the MT and midlife aging on health and well-being in women. SWAN will be instrumental to determine whether MT-related changes during midlife are related to unfavorable health and well-being in early old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar R. El Khoudary
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Gail Greendale
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Sybil L. Crawford
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Graduate School of Nursing, Worcester, MA
| | - Nancy E. Avis
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Maria M. Brooks
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Rebecca C. Thurston
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | - L. Elaine Waetjen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA
| | - Karen Matthews
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
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Cherkasskaya E, Rosario M. The Relational and Bodily Experiences Theory of Sexual Desire in Women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1659-1681. [PMID: 29926262 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1212-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We review the theory and research on women's sexual desire and present a theory that incorporates internalized representations of relational and bodily experiences into our understanding of the full range of desire in women. To this end, we move away from the current tendency to focus on low sexual desire in women and instead consider desire on a spectrum or continuum from absent or diminished to high desire across multiple sexual orientations, including heterosexual, bisexual, and lesbian. We review definitions of sexual desire, as well as the epidemiology and etiology of hypoactive sexual desire, the most prevalent sexual complaint in women, including the biological, psychological, and relationship correlates of inhibited sexual desire. Subsequently, we examine the research on highly sexual women, who tend to experience high levels of sexual desire, sexual agency, and sexual esteem, and distinguish between high sexual desire and hypersexuality. We introduce two important constructs that are integrated into the Relational and Bodily Experiences Theory (RBET) of sexual desire in women: attachment and sexual body self-representations, suggesting that women's internalized representations of self and other that stem from childhood and their capacity to embody their sexual bodies are integral to our understanding of the phenomenology of sexual desire in women. RBET calls for further research into the links between attachment, sexual body self-representations, and desire, and suggests that clinical interventions for sexual desire difficulties in women should emphasize internalized working models of relationships (i.e., attachment) and integrate bodily based approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Cherkasskaya
- Counseling and Psychological Services/Columbia Health, Columbia University, Alfred Lerner Hall, 8th Floor, 2920 Broadway, Mail Code 2606, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| | - Margaret Rosario
- Department of Psychology, City University of New York-City College and The Graduate Center, New York, NY, USA
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Kelley EL, Cannell MB, Gass M, Sealy-Jefferson S, Woods NF, Bird CE, Stefanick ML, Weitlauf JC. Is Interpersonal Abuse Associated with Sexual (Dis)satisfaction among Postmenopausal Women? Womens Health Issues 2019; 29:299-307. [PMID: 31277914 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate associations between past-year verbal and/or physical abuse (VA/PA) and sexual (dis)satisfaction, that is, global or frequency-related (dis)satisfactions with sexual activity, among postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative. PROCEDURES A cross-sectional analysis of archival data was performed from the subset of 83,329 Women's Health Initiative participants (clinical trial and/or observational study components) who reported sexual activity in the year before baseline. Associations between VA/PA and global frequency (dis)satisfactions were modeled using logistic regression. MAIN FINDINGS Most participants reported sexual satisfaction (global, 77%; frequency related, 66%). Disappointment with sexual frequency, specifically a desire for more frequent sex, was the most common dissatisfaction expressed. Past-year VA/PA exposure was reported by 9,410 participants (11%). In regression models adjusted for sociodemographic, health and health risk, and menopausal symptom variables, VA/PA was associated with higher rates of global (35% VA/PA exposed vs. 22% non-exposed; adjusted odds ratio, 1.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.53-1.80) and frequency-related dissatisfactions (50% of VA/PA exposed vs. 32% of non-exposed; adjusted odds ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.57-1.90). CONCLUSIONS Sexual satisfaction was common, but not universally reported by study participants. Sexual dissatisfactions were overrepresented in VA/PA-exposed participants and associated with a desire for more frequent sexual activity. Opportunities for postmenopausal women to receive clinician-led education about safe and healthy ways to increase sexual activity are needed. Further research on this topic, particularly efforts to characterize safety concerns as well as modifiable barriers to satisfying sexual activity among postmenopausal women with recent VA/PA, would ensure that these interventions are evidence based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika L Kelley
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, MacDonald Women's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - M Brad Cannell
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas School of Public Health - Dallas Campus, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | - Nancy F Woods
- University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, Washington
| | - Chloe E Bird
- RAND Corporation and Pardee RAND Graduate School, Santa Monica, California
| | - Marcia L Stefanick
- Department of Medicine (Stanford Prevention Research Center), Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Julie C Weitlauf
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Women experience a variety of changes at midlife that may affect sexual function. Qualitative research approaches can allow a deeper understanding of women's experiences. We conducted 20 individual interviews and three focus groups among sexually active women aged 45 to 60 years (total n = 39) to explore how sexual function changes during midlife. METHODS Interviews and focus groups were conducted by a trained facilitator using a semistructured guide. All data were audio-recorded and transcribed. Two investigators used a subsample of data to iteratively develop a codebook. The primary investigator coded all data. A second investigator coded a randomly selected 25% of interviews. Codes regarding changes in sexual function were examined and key themes emerged. RESULTS The mean age was 52, and most women were peri- or postmenopausal. Fifty-four per cent of women were white, 36% black, and 10% of another race. Participants discussed positive and negative changes in sexual function. The most common negative changes were decreased frequency of sex, low libido, vaginal dryness, and anorgasmia. Participants attributed negative changes to menopause, partner issues, and stress. Most participants responded to negative changes with adaptation, including changing sexual behavior and prioritizing different aspects of sex. Participants also reported positive changes, attributed to higher self-confidence, increased self-knowledge, and better communication skills with aging. CONCLUSIONS In this qualitative study, women described experiencing both positive and negative changes in sexual function during midlife. When negative changes occurred, women often adapted behaviorally and psychologically. Providers should recognize that each woman's experience is unique and nuanced, and they should provide tailored care regarding sexual function at midlife.
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von Hippel C, Adhia A, Rosenberg S, Austin SB, Partridge A, Tamimi R. Sexual Function among Women in Midlife: Findings from the Nurses' Health Study II. Womens Health Issues 2019; 29:291-298. [PMID: 31130435 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women's sexual well-being is an important determinant of overall health and quality of life across the life course. Yet the factors associated with women's levels of sexual activity and sexual function in midlife are little understood. This study sought to assess the prevalence of recent sexual activity and sexual dysfunction symptoms among middle-aged women and evaluate the associations of partner status, menopause, and health status factors with sexual dysfunction. METHODS Participants of this cross-sectional study were 68,131 women who responded to the 2013 Nurses' Health Study II observational cohort questionnaire when they were age 48-68 years. Sexual activity and dysfunction symptoms were assessed with the Female Sexual Function Index. Age-adjusted multivariable regression models estimated risk ratios for the association of health-related factors with past month sexual dysfunction symptoms among women who were sexually active over the past month, overall and stratified by partner status. RESULTS Of middle-aged women participants, 73% were sexually active (n = 49,701) and 50% of sexually active women reported symptoms of sexual dysfunction. Symptoms of sexual dysfunction were less common among unpartnered than partnered women (42% vs. 51%; p < .0001). A positive association between menopause and sexual dysfunction was greater for unpartnered women (risk ratio, 2.37, 2.99; p < .001) than partnered women (risk ratio, 1.89, 2.00; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Difficulty with sexual function is common among women in midlife, but less so than previously estimated. Regular monitoring of women's sexual function could enable clinicians to offer women timely, supportive interventions tailored by partner status and menopausal status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiana von Hippel
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Avanti Adhia
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shoshana Rosenberg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - S Bryn Austin
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ann Partridge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rulla Tamimi
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Rosen NO, Bergeron S. Genito-Pelvic Pain Through a Dyadic Lens: Moving Toward an Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Model of Women's Sexual Dysfunction. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:440-461. [PMID: 30252510 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1513987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Researchers and clinicians alike widely acknowledge the inherently interpersonal nature of women's sexual dysfunctions given that both partners impact and are impacted by these difficulties. Yet theoretical models for understanding the role of interpersonal factors in women's sexual dysfunctions are severely lacking and have the potential to guide future research and inform more effective interventions. The most widely studied sexual dysfunction in women that has espoused a dyadic approach by including both members of affected couples is genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). In this article we use the example of GPPPD to introduce a novel interpersonal emotion regulation model of women's sexual dysfunction. We first review current knowledge regarding distal and proximal interpersonal factors in GPPPD. Then, we describe our theoretical model and consider relevant pain and sex-related research on emotion regulation processes-emotional awareness, expression, and experience-in the context of GPPPD, including sexual function, satisfaction, and distress. Next, we review how existing theories from the fields of chronic pain and sex and relationships research have informed our model and how our model further builds on them. Finally, we discuss the implications of our model and its applications, including to other sexual dysfunctions in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , IWK Health Centre
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45
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Heidari M, Ghodusi M, Rezaei P, Kabirian Abyaneh S, Sureshjani EH, Sheikhi RA. Sexual Function and Factors Affecting Menopause: A Systematic Review. J Menopausal Med 2019; 25:15-27. [PMID: 31080785 PMCID: PMC6487288 DOI: 10.6118/jmm.2019.25.1.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review study is to evaluate sexual function and its effective factors in menopause. A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The key words of “menopause,” “postmenopause,” “postmenopausal,” “premenopause,” “pre-menopausal period,” “sexual function,” “sexual health,” “sexuality,” “sexual and gender disorders,” “sexual development,” “sexual dysfunction,” “sexual disorders,” “sexual behavior and “sexual activity” were used in combination with the Boolean operators OR and AND. After reviewing the selected articles, 27 papers were selected based on the criteria for entering the study and the goals set. The results of the reviewed articles showed that, in the physical domain, the factors affecting sexual function can be mentioned, age, hormonal changes, medical problems and reproductive history. Sexual disorders in menopause can be affected by some of the individual and social characteristics and psychological problems. Considering the fact that many psychological and social injuries occur in this period following sexual disorders; therefore, policies and programs for improving the quality of life of women in menopause should be aimed at eliminating sexual dysfunction, correcting attitudes and negative emotions and help to women for more comfortable in menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Heidari
- Community-Oriented Nursing Midwifery Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mansureh Ghodusi
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Abadeh Branch, Islamic Azad University, Abadeh, Iran
| | - Parvin Rezaei
- Department of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ehsan Heidari Sureshjani
- Prehospital Emergency Care, Disaster and Emergency Medical Management Center, ShahreKord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Rahim Ali Sheikhi
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Partners Experience Consequences, Too: A Comparison of the Sexual, Relational, and Psychological Adjustment of Women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder and Their Partners to Control Couples. J Sex Med 2019; 16:83-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Zhao Y, Dong W, Sun L, Su Q, Zhu Y, Lu M, Tan C, Yang X. Analysis of factors that influence the quality of sexual life of climacteric women in China. Climacteric 2018; 22:73-78. [PMID: 30499736 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2018.1514002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to identify the factors associated with the sexual lives of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in China. METHODS A total of 426 participants were approached about this study from May 2012 to August 2013. In total, 252 cases were included in this study. One hundred and ninety-seven women who filled out the Quality of Sexual Life Questionnaire for Women (QSLQW) and the modified Kupperman Menopausal Index (KMI) had an active sexual life. Pearson's coefficient index was used to determine the correlation between the KMI and different domains of the QSLQW. Multivariable statistical analysis was performed to determine the correlation between different factors and the sexual life of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. RESULTS When the participants reported a higher KMI, they suffered lower sexual satisfaction (r = -0.16, p = 0.035), more severe sexual anxiety (r = -0.367, p = 4.9 × 10-7), and less sexual response (r = -0.21, p = 0.004). No correlation was found between the KMI and sexual communication, sexual attitude, and self-image. Multivariable statistical analysis showed that menopause status and higher KMI scores are associated with a decrease in sexual satisfaction among Chinese women (β = -9.76, 95% CI -16.89 to -2.64 and β = -0.41, 95% CI -0.68 to -0.15, respectively), and that the better the spousal relationship, the fewer deliveries and the higher the scores of sexual life quality (β = 8.86, 95% CI -0.91 to 18.63 and β = -6.65, 95% CI -11.83 to -1.48, respectively). CONCLUSION Factors including parity, spousal relationship, menopausal status, and menopausal symptoms are associated with the quality of sexual life of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhao
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
| | - W Dong
- b Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province , Kumming City, P. R. China
| | - L Sun
- c Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital , Tianjin , P. R. China
| | - Q Su
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
| | - Y Zhu
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
| | - M Lu
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
| | - C Tan
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
| | - X Yang
- a Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , P. R. China
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Allshouse A, Pavlovic J, Santoro N. Menstrual Cycle Hormone Changes Associated with Reproductive Aging and How They May Relate to Symptoms. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2018; 45:613-628. [PMID: 30401546 PMCID: PMC6226272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Key cycle changes occur as women transition from reproductive life to menopause, and they can be roughly linked to menopausal staging. It is important to understand the types of studies that inform the current knowledge. Patterns of symptoms within menstrual cycles (sleep, headache) generally favor worsening in association with the perimenstrual phase of the cycle, and patterns of chronic symptoms, such as hot flashes and adverse mood, appear to be worse when hormones are more variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Allshouse
- Department of Biostatistics, Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 E 17th Place, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jelena Pavlovic
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17th Avenue, Mail Stop B-198, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Karlamangla AS, Burnett-Bowie SAM, Crandall CJ. Bone Health During the Menopause Transition and Beyond. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2018; 45:695-708. [PMID: 30401551 PMCID: PMC6226267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The menopause transition is a critical period for bone health, with rapid losses in bone mass and strength occurring in a 3-year window bracketing the date of the final menstrual period. Declines in bone mass are accompanied by deleterious changes in bone macrostructure and microarchitecture, which may be captured by changes in composite strength indices and indices of trabecular thickness and connectivity. The onset of the rapid bone loss phase is preceded by changes in sex steroid hormones and increases in markers of bone resorption, measurements of which may be clinically useful in predicting the onset of the rapid loss phase and in identifying the women who will lose the most bone strength over the menopause transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun S Karlamangla
- Division of Geriatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10945 Le Conte Avenue #2339, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Sherri-Ann M Burnett-Bowie
- Endocrinology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Carolyn J Crandall
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 911 Broxton Avenue, 1st floor, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
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El Khoudary SR, Thurston RC. Cardiovascular Implications of the Menopause Transition: Endogenous Sex Hormones and Vasomotor Symptoms. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2018; 45:641-661. [PMID: 30401548 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The menopause transition (MT) is a critical period of women's lives marked by several physiologic changes and menopause-related symptoms that have implications for health. Risk for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in women, increases after menopause, suggesting a contribution of the MT to its development. This article focuses on the relationship between 2 main features of the MT and women's cardiovascular health: (1) dynamic alterations of sex hormones, particularly endogenous estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, and (2) vasomotor symptoms, the cardinal symptom of the menopause. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar R El Khoudary
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, Epidemiology Data Center, University of Pittsburgh, 4420 Bayard Street, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
| | - Rebecca C Thurston
- Departments of Psychiatry and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 3811 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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