Curriculum of Gynecology
TOPIC 58
MENOPAUSE
RATIONALE
The female climacteric period is marked by the physiologic waning of ovarian function during which changes occur to convert the individual from the reproductive phase to that of ovarian failure. The climacteric in the females may be empirically classified into three phases: pre-menopausal, menopausal, and post-menopausal.
GOAL
Understand the physiology of menopause, anomalies, and management
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course, the student will be able to:
l Identify the presence of secondary sex characteristics
l Describe the physiological changes at the time of menopause
l Recognize abnormalities of menopause
l Mention the management of menopause with emphasis on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its protocols, cautions, and contraindications
l Counsel postmenopausal women about HRT and its hazards
l Express sympathy and kindness with postmenopausal women
CONTENT
l Causes of menopause
l Anatomical changes in the genital tract, breasts, body fat, endocrine glands, bones, and skin
l Functional changes affecting menstruation, fertility, the nervous system, and sexuality
l Complications of menopause
l Evaluation and treatment of menopause and its complications
