Climacteric
Audio Summaries

A narrative review of energy expenditure and substrate oxidation during menopause

Mar 20, 2026

This narrative review aims to explore the changes in energy expenditure and substrate oxidation during menopause, particularly focusing on how the menopausal transition affects various components of energy expenditure and metabolism. The authors highlight a decline in resting and sleeping energy expenditure, fat oxidation, and physical activity energy expenditure, attributing these changes to hormonal adaptations associated with decreasing estrogen and increasing follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Overall, the review seeks to fill the knowledge gap regarding the energetic adaptations during this critical life stage.

Transdermal estradiol spray in Nordic menopausal women: real-world patient outcomes

Mar 19, 2026

This study aimed to assess the effects of a transdermal estradiol spray on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and tolerability in postmenopausal women in Sweden and Finland. Results indicated significant improvements in HRQoL, with a notable reduction in menopause-related symptoms and high levels of user satisfaction, suggesting that the spray is an effective and user-friendly treatment option for menopausal symptoms.

Age and diagnostic assessment of natural menopause in low-weight women

Mar 16, 2026

This study investigates the age of natural menopause in low-weight women (BMI <18.5 kg/m²) and the reliability of laboratory evaluations in confirming menopausal status. The findings indicate that lower BMI is associated with earlier menopause, with a significant portion of low-weight women having non-diagnostic follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, suggesting potential misclassification of menopausal status in this demographic.

Oxidative balance score and periodontitis in postmenopausal women: a nationwide study

Mar 10, 2026

This study investigates the relationship between oxidative balance score (OBS) and periodontitis in postmenopausal women, utilizing data from 16,489 participants in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The findings indicate that higher OBS, particularly from lifestyle factors, is associated with a lower prevalence of periodontitis, suggesting that a healthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to better periodontal health in this population. The authors propose that a low OBS could serve as a potential risk indicator for periodontitis.

Reproductive potential in mosaic Turner syndrome: impact of karyotype pattern and mosaicism ratio

Mar 10, 2026

This study investigates the reproductive potential of women with Turner syndrome, specifically focusing on the effects of karyotype patterns and mosaicism ratios. The findings reveal that women with 45,X/46,XX mosaicism, particularly those with a lower percentage of 45,X cells, have a higher likelihood of spontaneous menarche and successful pregnancies. The authors emphasize the importance of early diagnosis through karyotyping for effective fertility counseling and management.

Comparison of menopausal symptoms in women with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study

Mar 10, 2026

This study aimed to compare the prevalence and severity of menopausal symptoms in women with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The findings revealed that women with T2DM experienced significantly higher rates of sexual problems, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances, indicating a need for tailored menopausal care for this population.

The association between smoking and joint pain in women attending a specialized menopause clinic

Mar 3, 2026

This study aimed to determine whether smoking is independently associated with joint pain in menopausal women. The findings revealed that smoking significantly correlated with moderate to severe joint pain, suggesting that estrogen-related pathways may be involved in menopausal joint symptoms and identifying smoking as a potentially modifiable risk factor.

Female reproductive factors, genetic susceptibility and incident osteoporosis risk

Feb 26, 2026

The authors investigate how female reproductive factors and genetic susceptibility influence the risk of developing osteoporosis in women. Analyzing data from nearly 50,000 participants, they find that certain reproductive histories, such as late menarche and premature ovarian insufficiency, increase osteoporosis risk, while oral contraceptive use offers protection. The study highlights the importance of considering both reproductive history and genetic predisposition for improved risk assessment and personalized prevention strategies.

Hot flashes: a potential marker of deterioration of health-related quality of life

Feb 23, 2026

This study investigates the relationship between the severity of hot flashes and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in middle-aged women across 12 Latin American countries. The authors found that increasing severity of hot flashes is significantly associated with lower HRQoL scores, suggesting that hot flashes may serve as a clinical marker of broader health deterioration linked to reproductive aging. The results highlight the importance of assessing and managing vasomotor symptoms in routine healthcare for midlife women.

Treatment patterns of hormone therapy for menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: analysis of the HIRA database in South Korea

Feb 11, 2026

This study aimed to analyze the treatment patterns of hormone therapy (HT) for menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms (VMS) among women in South Korea using the HIRA database. The findings revealed that a significant portion of patients had medical conditions that posed contraindications or precautions for HT, highlighting a need for alternative treatments. Despite the low percentage of menopausal women receiving HT, the study underscores the importance of evaluating the safety and efficacy of prescribed therapies in this population.