Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of menstrual periods, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. It usually occurs between the ages of 45-55.
Leading up to menopause, a woman's ovaries start to fail and estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate and decline. The pituitary gland responds by increasing secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in an attempt to stimulate the ovaries.
However, the ovaries become less and less responsive. As a result, FSH and LH levels are often elevated during the menopausal transition and postmenopause compared to premenopausal levels.
Some key points about LH levels in menopause:
- LH levels start to rise 1-2 years prior to the final menstrual period as the body tries to compensate for the decline in ovarian function
- LH levels peak during perimenopause, the transition phase leading up to menopause when periods become irregular
- Postmenopausal LH levels are about 2 to 3 times higher than premenopausal levels
- There is significant variability in LH levels between individuals
Factors that influence LH levels:
- Age - LH rises more dramatically near the final menses
- Genetics - Some women have a more robust ovarian reserve and won't have as dramatic of an LH rise
- Use of hormone therapy - Taking estrogen and/or progesterone can help suppress high LH back to premenopausal ranges
So in summary,
yes LH levels are often elevated during the menopausal transition and remain elevated after menopause when compared to premenopausal levels. The degree of LH rise varies substantially between women.
Symptoms of high LH:
Women with elevated LH may experience menopausal symptoms like:
However, it is the estrogen and progesterone withdrawal that is driving most of these common symptoms - not specifically the rise in LH.
Health risks:
- Osteoporosis - Due to low estrogen levels
- Heart disease - Loss of estrogen's protective cardiovascular effects
If menopausal symptoms are significantly impacting quality of life,
hormone therapy may be an option to help suppress LH back to premenopausal levels. Treatment is individualized based on the patient's health profile and goals.
Options may include:
- Estrogen therapy
- Progesterone therapy
- Combined estrogen progesterone therapy
- Bioidentical hormones
- Custom compounded hormones
At New Beginnings HRT Clinic, our physicians have advanced specialized training in optimizing and balancing hormone levels for women during menopause and beyond. We take a holistic approach focused on lifestyle, nutrition and using cutting edge hormone therapies tailored to your individual needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss relief for your menopausal symptoms and develop a treatment plan to help you thrive through midlife and beyond.
