Premature Surgical Menopause Linked to Increased Risk of Muscle Disorders

A recent study published in the journal Menopause has shed light on the potential risks associated with premature surgical menopause, particularly concerning muscle health. Sarcopenia, a musculoskeletal disease characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is significantly influenced by hormonal changes, especially those related to menopause.

The study emphasized the impact of hormone deficiency, rather than chronological age, on the development of muscle disorders. Premature surgical menopause, whether due to medical intervention or spontaneous causes, leads to a more abrupt and complete loss of ovarian hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, compared to natural menopause.

Analyzing data from nearly 650 women in the United States, researchers found that those who underwent premature surgical menopause were at a higher risk of experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort and developing sarcopenia compared to women who experienced natural menopause at the age of 45 or older.

Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society, highlighted the potential long-term musculoskeletal effects of premature surgical menopause. She emphasized that hormone therapy until the natural age of menopause could help mitigate some of these adverse effects by addressing the loss of estrogen and testosterone.

The study also revealed that complaints of muscle stiffness were most prevalent during the menopausal transition, affecting over half of women aged 40 to 55 years in the United States.

These findings underscore the importance of considering hormonal factors in managing musculoskeletal health, particularly for women undergoing premature surgical menopause. Further research and targeted interventions may help alleviate the burden of muscle disorders associated with menopause.