Self-Assessment Questions

24. Menopause

• What test is diagnostic for menopause? Explain the physiologic reasons for why this test works.

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  Correct answer:
  An increased FSH level above a specified cut-off value is diagnostic for menopause. This occurs at menopause because the ovaries produce less inhibin. Inhibin exerts negative feedback on the pituitary gland for FSH production, so decreased levels led to higher levels of serum FSH. Ovarian estrogen production also diminishes at this time, which leads to many of the symptoms of menopause.