Climacteric
Audio Summaries

The effect of auricular acupressure on quality of life in postmenopausal women: a randomized sham-controlled clinical trial

May 7, 2026

The study aimed to determine the effect of auricular acupressure on the quality of life (QoL) in postmenopausal women, amid rising interest in complementary therapies over traditional hormone treatments. Results indicated that auricular acupressure significantly improved overall QoL and all specific domains (physical, psychosocial, vasomotor, and sexual) compared to a sham treatment. The findings suggest that this non-pharmacological approach may be beneficial for women experiencing menopausal symptoms, particularly those ineligible for hormone therapy.

l-Proline as a safer strategy to preserve ovarian function for patients facing gonadotoxic therapies

May 5, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate l-proline as a safer alternative to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for preserving ovarian function in patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies. Their study found that l-proline effectively maintained key follicular metrics, such as estradiol secretion and viability, comparable to DMSO, while also demonstrating a better biosafety profile. These results suggest that l-proline could enhance the safety of clinical fertility preservation strategies.

Do menopausal symptoms signal early biological aging? Mitochondrial, endocrine and clinical insights

May 1, 2026

The authors investigate whether menopausal symptoms can serve as indicators of early biological aging in women, examining the interplay between hormonal changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, and various health vulnerabilities during the menopausal transition. They highlight that symptoms such as vasomotor instability and cognitive complaints may reflect underlying biological aging processes, while also considering the potential impact of menopausal hormone therapy on these pathways. Ultimately, the study seeks to clarify the relationship between menopausal experiences and the aging trajectory in midlife women.

Photobiomodulation therapy in the treatment of genitourinary syndrome in postmenopausal women - a placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial

Apr 30, 2026

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in treating genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms, particularly urinary incontinence, in postmenopausal women. The results indicated that PBM therapy significantly reduced urinary loss and improved vaginal health, suggesting it as a promising non-invasive treatment option. However, further research is needed to assess long-term effects and refine treatment protocols.

Association between menopausal status and physical function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Apr 22, 2026

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the relationship between menopausal status and physical function. The findings indicated that premenopausal and perimenopausal women generally exhibit better physical strength and function compared to postmenopausal women, highlighting the menopausal transition as a critical period for physical decline. The authors emphasize the need for targeted healthcare strategies to support women during this transition.

Menopausal hormone use after hysterectomy in endometriosis: a Finnish register-based study

Apr 1, 2026

This study investigates the prevalence and types of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) utilized by women with endometriosis following hysterectomy. The findings reveal that a significant majority of these women use MHT, with a notable increase in the adoption of combined estrogen-progestin therapy, highlighting the necessity for further research on the long-term effects of MHT in this population.

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.

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.