How does menopause typically affect a woman's reproductive hormones?

During menopause, there is a significant decline in the production of the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone. This decline occurs because the ovaries gradually lose their ability to produce these hormones as a woman ages, leading to the cessation of menstruation. The decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone are responsible for many of the symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.

In contrast to the correct answer, options that suggest an increase in hormone levels or that levels remain unchanged do not align with the biological processes that occur during menopause. The hormonal landscape shifts notably toward a lower concentration of estrogen, which has profound effects on various bodily systems and is a hallmark of this life stage. Thus, the answer highlighting the decrease in both estrogen and progesterone accurately reflects the changes that occur during menopause.