After menopause, what is the overall impact on women's hormone production?

In the postmenopausal phase, there is a significant decrease in the production of reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. This decline is primarily due to the cessation of ovarian function, as the ovaries stop releasing eggs and significantly reduce the synthesis of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle.

Estrogen, which plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including bone density maintenance, cardiovascular health, and the regulation of other hormones, drops to very low levels following menopause. This reduction can lead to various physiological changes and symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood changes, and increased risks for certain health conditions, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Understanding this decline is critical for managing menopausal symptoms and supporting women's health after menopause. While other options might imply different patterns of hormone levels, the established medical consensus confirms that the postmenopausal period is characterized by a notable decrease in hormone production.