Hormonal Regulation & Menopause - CCC2

What is the main function of the hypothalamus?

Regulates temperature, metabolism, and satiety.

Why is the pituitary gland called the master gland?

It releases hormones that regulate other glands and body functions.

What does TSH regulate?

Stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.

What is the function of growth hormone (GH)?

Promotes bone growth and bone density.

What does prolactin (PRL) stimulate?

Breast milk production.

What is the function of ADH?

Promotes water retention by the kidneys, decreasing urine output.

What does oxytocin do?

Stimulates uterine contractions and milk let-down.

What hormone does the pineal gland produce?

Melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle.

What hormones does the thyroid gland produce?

T3 and T4, which regulate metabolism.

What are the two main pancreatic hormones?

Insulin lowers blood glucose; glucagon raises it.

What are the main adrenal corticosteroid hormones?

Cortisol and aldosterone.

What does cortisol help the body manage?

Stress and metabolism; it also affects inflammation and blood glucose.

What does aldosterone regulate?

Sodium and water retention and potassium excretion.

What are the main sex hormones?

Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

What factors can disrupt homeostasis?

Disease, poor organ perfusion, edema, hypovolemia, respiratory distress, and infection.

How can hormonal homeostasis be supported?

Good nutrition, adequate protein, exercise, and stress reduction.

Who is at risk for hormonal dysregulation?

Women, teens, and people with genetic disorders, injuries, infections, or endocrine disease.

What gland changes can cause hormonal dysregulation?

Nodules or tumors that interfere with normal hormone production.

What can chronic hormonal dysregulation cause?

Sexual dysfunction, infertility, and chronic disease.

What is negative feedback in hormone regulation?

A response that reduces a stimulus and limits further hormone release.

Give an example of negative feedback.

High thyroid hormone levels suppress TSH release from the pituitary.

What is perimenopause?

The transition leading up to menopause, when hormone levels and periods change.

How long can perimenopause last?

Months to three years or longer before the final menstrual period.

What defines menopause?

Twelve consecutive months without menstruation, with no other explanation.

At what age does menopause typically occur?

Around age 50.

What hormone changes occur during menopause?

Estrogen decreases and FSH increases.

What are common vasomotor symptoms of menopause?

Hot flashes and night sweats.

What are common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause?

Irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep problems, mood changes, vaginal dryness, fatigue, hair loss, and low libido.

What are long-term risks of menopause-related estrogen loss?

Osteoporosis and increased cardiovascular risk.

How does menopause affect metabolism and weight?

It can contribute to weight gain and increased metabolic syndrome risk.

What conditions can mimic menopause symptoms?

Pregnancy, thyroid disease, hyperprolactinemia, PCOS, tumors, anorexia, endometriosis, and carcinoid syndrome.

What labs may help evaluate menopause-like symptoms?

TSH, prolactin, and pregnancy testing when indicated.

What lifestyle changes can reduce menopause symptoms?

Exercise, weight management, smoking cessation, and avoiding excess heat, spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine.

How may pelvic floor exercises help during menopause?

They strengthen pelvic floor muscles and may improve urinary symptoms.

What nonpharmacologic therapies may help menopause symptoms?

Cognitive behavioral therapy and, in some cases, acupuncture.

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Treatment that replaces estrogen to relieve menopause symptoms.

Why add progesterone to systemic estrogen if the uterus is present?

To protect the endometrium and reduce endometrial cancer risk.

What is systemic HRT used to treat?

Whole-body symptoms, especially hot flashes and night sweats.

What forms can systemic HRT take?

Oral medication, transdermal patches, or other systemic formulations.

When is vaginal estrogen commonly used?

For vaginal dryness and urinary or genitourinary symptoms.

Does vaginal estrogen usually require added progesterone?

Low-dose vaginal estrogen usually does not, but individual risks require provider guidance.

What are potential benefits of HRT?

Relief of hot flashes, improved sleep and mood, and protection against bone loss.

What are major risks or contraindications to systemic HRT?

Certain clotting disorders, breast or uterine cancers, liver disease, and some cardiovascular conditions.

How does age or timing affect HRT risk?

Starting after age 60 or over 10 years after menopause may increase cardiovascular and stroke risks.

What should be assessed before HRT is started?

Medical history, cancer and clotting risks, cardiovascular and liver disease, symptoms, and treatment goals.