During menopause, women may experience a decrease in what hormone?

During menopause, women experience a significant decline in estrogen levels. Estrogen is a crucial hormone produced primarily by the ovaries, and its levels naturally decrease as menopause occurs, typically marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. This decrease can lead to various symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, due to the hormone's role in regulating numerous bodily functions.

The transition of menopause involves hormonal changes that signal the body to cease ovulation and reduce the production of reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen. Other hormones such as testosterone may not decrease in the same significant manner as estrogen during menopause. Insulin and thyroid hormone levels are also not primarily affected by the menopausal transition in the same way estrogen is. Understanding the role of estrogen during menopause is critical for recognizing the physical and psychological changes that women may encounter during this phase of life.