The ovaries are small, almond-shaped organs located on both sides of the uterus. They produce the eggs and female hormones estrogen and progesterone. After menopause, around age 51 on average, women stop menstruating and producing eggs. The ovaries essentially retire from their egg-producing duties.
However, the ovaries do still serve several important functions after menopause:
- They continue producing small amounts of androgen hormones like testosterone and androstenedione. These hormones are important for bone health, muscle mass, libido, and more.
- The ovaries help metabolize cholesterol. About half of a postmenopausal woman's circulating testosterone comes from her ovaries metabolizing cholesterol.
- They may also be involved in processing hormones from elsewhere in the body. For example, adrenal gland hormones can be metabolized by the ovaries.
- The ovaries still produce relaxin after menopause, a hormone involved in collagen production and potentially cognition.
- They might even secrete small peptides that help communicate with other organs. Scientists are still discovering ovarian secretions that might coordinate activities in tissues like bone and brain.
So while the ovaries retire from the egg production line, they still contribute to a woman's physiology in several ways. Keeping the ovaries healthy long-term remains important.
Managing Postmenopausal Ovaries and Hormones
There are several ways women can support ovarian and hormonal health after menopause:
- Get regular health checkups to monitor for potential issues like ovarian cysts. Cysts are usually harmless but should be evaluated.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management. This supports the ovaries and overall wellbeing.
- Consider professional hormones guidance. The Hormone Harmony Clinic helps craft customized hormone therapy to alleviate menopause symptoms and promote long-term health. Their compassionate doctors optimize hormones in a safe, responsible way through:
- Thorough testing and evaluation
- Bioidentical hormone options
- Ongoing fine-tuning and monitoring
- Try supplements like maca, DHEA, or black cohosh under a doctor's supervision. These may gently support ovarian hormone production but require care when using.
In most women, the ovaries continue functioning normally after menopause without needing intervention. But health issues can develop in some cases. Being proactive with checkups and lifestyle can ensure the ovaries keep doing their job!
The key is working with experts who understand the ovaries don't just shut off at menopause. At places like
Hormone Harmony Clinic, they know ovaries and hormones play vital roles across a woman's lifespan. Their
individualized care empowers women to achieve optimal wellness during the menopause transition and beyond.
