ABSTRACT:

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive life and is associated with significant physiological changes. The thyroid gland plays an important role in regulating overall body metabolism including sexual development and reproductive function. Worldwide, thyroid gland diseases are among the most common endocrine disorders in females, especially those in menopause. This study evaluated the effect of menopause on thyroid function.
Methodology: It was a case-control study among post-menopausal women in Nnewi, Anambra, Nigeria with pre-menopausal women serving as controls. Sampling was by simple random method and comprised 45 post-menopausal women matched with 45 premenopausal women in a ratio of 1:1. Data was obtained with the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. The subjects’ blood samples were taken and assayed for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) by ELISA technique. Their body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure were obtained using standard procedures.
Result: The mean serum levels of free T4 and TSH in the menopausal individuals were significantly higher compared to the premenopausal group. Following linear regression analyses with adjustment for age and BMI, the the average level of TSH and free T4 were higher in the study group, while free T3 level was lower. Also, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that menopause is associated with reduced thyroid function and could as a result play a role in cardiovascular disease play a role in cardiovascular dysfunction among women

KEYWORDS:

Estrogen, Menopause, Thyroid function, Thyroxine, TSH

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