Midlife change in hormone secretion due to age related depletion of follicles in the ovaries. Without follicles, what happens to her estrogen and progesterone levels? occurs with menopause (cessation of menstruation); average age of 52 Results from the lack of estrogen (estrogen supports growth) atrophy of uterus, vagina and breasts skin becomes thin; bone mass decrease; and risks of cardiovascular disease and stroke increase (due to loss of vessel elasticity) hot flashes (sudden dilation of cutaneous arteries) Occur several times a day Blood levels of FSH/LH rise during climacteric. Why? HRT = hormone replacement therapy to treat symptoms What hormone is in HRT? (Hint: What hormone is missing) What are the risks? (think about what the hormone does) What are the benefits? Why?