Endocrinological changes occurring during menopause include all of the following except:
A. Fall in serum oestradiol level
B. Fall in FSH level
C. Increase in LH level
D. Increased levels of androgens
Correct Answer: B. Fall in FSH level
Question:
Endocrinological changes occurring during menopause include all of the following except:
Correct Answer:
Explanation:-
Decrease in FSH (or Decrease in LH)
(Because FSH and LH actually increase during menopause)
During menopause, the ovaries stop producing adequate estrogen and progesterone. As a result, the pituitary gland increases secretion of gonadotropins:
Hormone Change During Menopause Reason
Estrogen Decreases Ovarian follicles stop functioning
Progesterone Decreases Lack of ovulation
FSH Increases sharply Loss of negative feedback from estrogen
LH Increases Same reason
Inhibin Decreases Due to follicular depletion
Therefore, the incorrect statement (EXCEPT) is:
↓ FSH (or ↓ LH / Increased estrogen depending on options)
Other Options Details:-
Here are the descriptions of all the options:
A. Fall in serum oestradiol level
• Oestradiol (a type of estrogen) is mainly produced by the ovaries.
• During menopause, ovarian function declines, leading to decreased estrogen production.
• This fall in estrogen causes symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness
B. Fall in FSH level
• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is produced by the anterior pituitary gland.
• Normally FSH increases in menopause because the pituitary tries to stimulate poorly functioning ovaries.
• Therefore, a fall in FSH is not typical for menopause.
C. Increase in LH level
• LH (Luteinizing Hormone) also comes from the anterior pituitary.
• As estrogen levels fall, feedback to the pituitary is reduced, causing increase in LH levels.
• This rise in LH is one of the markers used to identify menopause.
D. Increased levels of androgens
• Ovaries and adrenal glands produce androgens (e.g., androstenedione, testosterone).
• During menopause, estrogen levels fall faster than androgen levels, which may lead to relative increase of androgens.
• This can cause symptoms like facial hair growth (hirsutism) or acne.
Summary
Option What happens during menopause
A. Fall in serum oestradiol Common change
B. Fall in FSH level Not seen (FSH increases)
C. Increase in LH level Common change
D. Increased levels of androgens Relative increase
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)