Climacteric
Audio Summaries

The role of hormones in female androgenetic alopecia: focus on menopause

Sep 18, 2026

This article investigates the role of hormonal changes during menopause in the development of female androgenetic alopecia (FAGA), particularly focusing on the effects of androgens, estrogens, and other hormones on hair loss. The authors aim to clarify the unclear pathogenesis of FAGA, exploring the relationship between hormonal fluctuations and risk factors such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women.

Global prevalence of vasomotor symptoms in the menopause transition: systematic review and meta-analysis

Sep 16, 2026

The authors aimed to estimate the global prevalence of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) during the menopausal transition by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based studies. They found that VMS prevalence varied significantly across different regions, with estimates ranging from 54.29% in Africa to 74.23% in the Americas and Europe, and noted that cultural and methodological factors likely contribute to this heterogeneity. The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to menopause care and management.

Association between triglyceride-glucose-related indices and reproductive lifespan: a cross-sectional study from the NHANES (2007-2020)

Sep 14, 2026

This study investigates the relationship between triglyceride-glucose (TyG)-related indices and female reproductive lifespan using data from the NHANES survey (2007-2020). The authors found that higher levels of TyG indices are positively associated with a longer reproductive lifespan and later age at menopause, while inversely related to the age at menarche. These findings suggest that metabolic health factors, as indicated by TyG indices, may influence reproductive lifespan in women.

Effect of fezolinetant on sleep, health-related quality of life and work productivity

Sep 14, 2026

The study aimed to assess the effects of fezolinetant on sleep disturbances and work productivity in women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) due to menopause. Results indicated that fezolinetant significantly improved sleep outcomes and work productivity over 12 weeks, with sustained benefits observed at 52 weeks, highlighting a correlation between reductions in VMS and enhancements in both sleep quality and work performance.

Perimenopausal symptom burden: implications for health, work and earlier clinical management

Sep 11, 2026

This study investigates the symptom burden, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and work-related outcomes in perimenopausal women, aiming to highlight the need for improved clinical attention during reproductive aging. The findings reveal that symptom severity significantly increases with age and menstrual status, particularly in women with irregular cycles and those who are postmenopausal, leading to lower HRQoL and job satisfaction. The authors suggest that recognizing these issues earlier could guide more effective, stage-specific clinical management.

What is in the bottle? An analysis of the ingredients in menopause supplements

Sep 10, 2026

The authors aimed to analyze the ingredients, dosages, and costs of menopause supplements available in the UK, amidst a growing market projected to reach $25 billion by 2030 despite limited evidence of their efficacy. They found that the majority of the 201 supplements analyzed contained herbs, vitamins, and phytoestrogens, with significant variability in formulations and prices. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be informed about these supplements and to guide women towards evidence-based treatment options.

Chronic pain at midlife

Sep 9, 2026

The authors aim to address the significant impact of chronic pain on midlife women, particularly in relation to menopause and its associated biopsychosocial factors. They provide an overview of common chronic pain syndromes, their neurobiological mechanisms, and the importance of culturally sensitive, personalized management approaches to improve quality of life. The paper seeks to raise awareness among clinicians and policymakers about the complexities of pain in this demographic and promote effective care strategies.

Vaginal and urinary microbiomes in postmenopausal women and breast cancer survivors and their associations with genitourinary syndrome of menopause: a scoping review

Aug 24, 2026

This scoping review investigates the relationship between urinary and vaginal microbiomes and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in postmenopausal women and breast cancer survivors. The authors found that microbial dysbiosis, characterized by anaerobic overgrowth of bacteria such as Gardnerella and Sneathia, is associated with GSM, particularly in breast cancer survivors who experience estrogen suppression. The study highlights the need for further exploration of microbiome-targeted treatments to address GSM symptoms.

Perimenopause and metabolic vulnerability: hormones, body composition and lifestyle changes

Aug 24, 2026

The authors investigate how perimenopause, marked by hormonal fluctuations and metabolic changes, contributes to increased metabolic vulnerability in women, particularly through alterations in body composition and energy metabolism. Their review highlights the role of declining estrogen in driving these changes and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle interventions, such as resistance training and adherence to a Mediterranean diet, in mitigating long-term cardiometabolic risks. Ultimately, they advocate for recognizing perimenopause as a critical period for early detection and prevention of metabolic dysfunction.

Women's and health professionals' needs and preferences informing the updated IMS recommendations

Aug 24, 2026

The study aimed to identify and compare the priorities and resource preferences of midlife women (MW) and health professionals (HPs) to inform the updated International Menopause Society (IMS) recommendations. Through international surveys, the authors found significant differences in priorities, with HPs focusing on premature ovarian insufficiency and non-pharmacological interventions, while MW emphasized midlife body changes and quality of life. These insights will guide the IMS in addressing the distinct needs of both groups in their updated recommendations.