Which hormone primarily decreases during the early stages of menopause?

During the early stages of menopause, the primary hormone that decreases is estradiol. Estradiol is a form of estrogen that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and in maintaining various functions in the female body.

As women approach menopause, the ovaries gradually diminish their production of estradiol. This decrease is a hallmark of the transition into menopause and leads to many of the symptoms associated with this stage, such as hot flashes, mood changes, and altered menstrual patterns. The decline occurs due to the depletion of ovarian follicles, which are pivotal for the production of this hormone.

Understanding this hormonal shift is essential for managing menopause symptoms and for the overall health care of women during this transition. In contrast, while testosterone, LH (luteinizing hormone), and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) levels may also change during menopause, the notable reduction of estradiol is significantly linked with the onset of menopausal symptoms and the biological changes occurring at this life stage.