Science Friday Where Are We On The Science Of Menopause?
Jul 28, 2025
Monica Christmas, an Associate Professor of Obstetrics at the University of Chicago, and Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Michigan, dive into the evolving conversation around menopause. They discuss how it’s become mainstream, fueled by celebrity awareness and social media. The duo tackles misconceptions, the significance of hormone therapy, and the disparities in menopausal experiences across demographics. They advocate for better health policies and highlight the potential liberation menopause can offer.
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Menopause Hormone Changes
- Menopause is caused by decreasing ovarian production of estrogen and progesterone with age.
- Hormone levels fluctuate during the transition, leading to various symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
Distinguishing Menopause from Aging
- It's challenging to separate menopause symptoms from those of general aging.
- Hormone fluctuations, not just low estrogen, often trigger mood swings and anxiety during menopause transition.
SWAN Study's Impact
- The SWAN study followed over 3,000 women for nearly 30 years to understand menopause and aging effects.
- It helps distinguish changes due to menopause from those due to chronological aging.