7 Which hormones are involved during menopause?
A hormone is described as being a ‘chemical messenger’ that is transported around the body to stimulate action in specific cells or tissues (Burrell et al., 2014). There are a total of some 47 hormones secreted from nine endocrine glands in our bodies, including the ovaries. They are responsible for a range of functions including sleep regulation, metabolic processes, blood sugar control, maintaining healthy blood pressure, regulating fluid volume and keeping bones healthy.
During the menopause changing levels of three hormones – oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone – have an impact on the body and mind. You will look at each of these hormones now.