MP3 Audio File - Clinical Challenges During Midlife Transitions and the Impact on Women’s Health

A woman's midlife transition from peri-menopause through post-menopause brings a period of vulnerability for physiologic and symptomatic changes affecting both physical and mental health. Estrogen has multiple effects on neurotransmitter systems and brain regions including the hypothalamus, neocortex, hippocampus, and brainstem. During times of estrogen fluctuations and decline, dysregulation of neuroendocrine systems can lead to physiologic effects such as hot flashes, reduced bone mass, and depression. In a recent online survey from The Menopause Epidemiology Study, the reported prevalence of VMS, including hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances, was 79% in peri- and 65% in post-menopausal women. Osteoporosis, characterized by a progressive reduction in bone mass is linked to female gender, increased age, and estrogen deficiency. The transition to menopause has also been demonstrated to be a period of increased risk for depressive symptoms even in women with no prior history of depression. Vasomotor symptoms, osteoporosis, depression—each can impair a woman's functioning and quality of life. As women are expected to live well into their 80s, it is essential that healthcare providers recognize and manage these changes. In this neuroscienceCME webcast, the experts will explore each of these clinical challenges that may face women in the midlife transition and provide insights and strategies for improving patient care.