Key hormones in a Woman’s Body
Estrogen
Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, and supporting cardiovascular health. During menopause, the ovaries produce less estrogen, contributing to many of the menopause continuum symptoms discussed above, as well as an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.
One notable change during menopause is a shift in fat storage, which is more likely to accumulate around the midsection. This happens because lower estrogen levels can alter how fat cells function, leading to more visceral fat around the organs.
Estrogen also plays a role in regulating insulin sensitivity (in addition to other factors like aging, decreased muscle mass, and increased inflammation). As levels decline during menopause, the body can become less responsive to insulin, potentially reducing the body's ability to regulate blood sugar effectively. This can result in
