Which hormonal change is typical during menopause?

During menopause, a significant hormonal change that occurs is the decrease in progesterone levels. This decline is largely due to the cessation of ovarian function, which leads to the diminished production of several hormones, including progesterone. The ovaries become less responsive to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), resulting in a reduced secretion of progesterone, which is primarily produced during the latter half of the menstrual cycle after ovulation.

This decrease in progesterone is a key factor in the irregularities and eventual cessation of menstrual cycles that characterize menopause. While there may be fluctuations in estrogen levels initially, the overall trend during menopause is also a decline in estrogen, particularly as the ovaries cease to release eggs.

The other hormonal changes do not appropriately describe the menopause stage: estrogen levels do not increase overall, and testosterone levels tend to remain stable or may also decrease slightly. Similarly, luteinizing hormone (LH) levels typically increase as a result of reduced feedback inhibition by estrogen and progesterone, reflecting the body's attempt to stimulate the ovaries in response to the low hormone levels.