Estrogen Therapy for Postmenopausal Females

Abstract

ULTIMATELY, as senescence of the ovary sets in — abruptly in some and slowly in others —there is a corresponding decline in estrogen production. The estrogen deficit substantially alters the anabolic-catabolic ratio, and adversely influences metabolic balances. Although the menopause is a physiologic process and represents a period of adjustment to a new milieu intérieur, it is a hormonal-deficiency state.Many physicians still hold the opinion that this period is physiologic, proscribing hormonal treatment but prescribing all manner of sedation.¹ The basic principle of therapy should be not only to assuage symptoms but also to cushion the metabolic insult . . .