Study on the relationship between the age at natural menopause and postmenopausal metabolic syndrome / 中华预防医学杂志

To explore the relationship between the early or delayed age at natural menopause and metabolic syndrome (MS) in women. A total of 4 734 natural menopausal women who completed the baseline survey from November 2017 to January 2020 in the Guangzhou Middle-aged and Elderly Chronic Disease Prospective Cohort Study were selected in this cross-sectional study. Data on general demographic characteristics, disease history and female physiological health indicators were collected. Logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline curve were used to analyze the relationship between the age at natural menopause and MS. The results showed that the mean age of the subjects was (60±6) years old. The median (Q1,Q3) age at natural menopause was 50 (49, 52) years old, and the prevalence of MS was 14.8%(699/4 734). After adjusting for confounders, the age at natural menopause was closely related to MS in an approximate"U"shape. Compared with the group of normal age at natural menopause, the early age at menopause (OR=1.52, 95%CI: 1.12-2.06) and delayed age at menopause (OR=1.77, 95%CI: 1.36-2.30) had a higher risk of MS. In the group with time since menopause ≤6 years and 7-9 years, the risk of MS in the group with delayed age at menopause was 2.40 times (95%CI: 1.54-3.75) and 2.19 times (95%CI: 1.11-4.31) higher than that in the group with normal menopausal age, respectively. In conclusion, the early and delayed age at natural menopause increased the risk of MS. The increased risk of MS in delayed age at natural menopause mainly occurred within 10 years since menopause.

Síntomas climatéricos y calidad de vida mediante índice de Kupperman-Blatt y escala de Cervantes / Climacteric Symptoms and Quality of Life according to the Kupperman-Blatt Index and the Cervantes Scale

Introducción: Durante el climaterio o perimenopausia se reflejan una serie de síntomas asociados a la disminución progresiva de las secreciones hormonales de estrógeno y progesterona, estas deficiencias provocan diversos síntomas de orden somático, vasomotor, sexual y psicológico que perjudican la calidad de vida en general de las mujeres, además de las alteraciones en el ciclo menstrual. Objetivo: Determinar la severidad de los síntomas climatéricos en mujeres perimenopáusicas mediante el índice de Kupperman-Blatt y la Escala de Cervantes. Métodos: Se trató de un estudio de corte cuantitativo, tipo descriptivo, observacional, y correlacional, en pacientes que asistían al Centro de Salud Las Moras, en el Departamento de Huánuco, Distrito Huánuco Perú. La muestra estuvo conformada por 60 mujeres que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se aplicaron el Índice Menopáusico de Kupperman-Blatt y la Escala de calidad de vida de Cervantes. Resultados: La evaluación global del Índice Menopáusico de Kupperman-Blatt clasificó a 55 por ciento de las pacientes con intensidad de síntomas leve, seguido de 35 por ciento en pacientes que declararon no tener síntomas. Esto se correspondió en la Escala de calidad de vida de Cervantes con 45 por ciento en pacientes clasificadas con compromiso leve de su calidad de vida, seguido de 40 por ciento con mediano compromiso de calidad de vida. Conclusiones: Con un nivel de significancia de p < 0,05, se demostró que durante la etapa climatérica ambos test presentan una correlación positiva, entre la intensidad de la sintomatología medida con el Índice Menopáusico de Kupperman-Blatt y la calidad de vida valorada con la Escala de Cervantes(AU)

Introduction: During climacteric or perimenopause, a series of symptoms are reflected in association with a progressive decrease in estrogen and progesterone hormone secretion. These deficiencies cause diverse somatic, vasomotor, sexual and psychological symptoms that impair the general quality of life of women, in addition to alterations in their menstrual cycle. Objective: To determine the severity of climacteric symptoms in perimenopausal women, using the Kupperman-Blatt index and the Cervantes scale. Methods: This was a quantitative, descriptive, observational and correlational study with patients attending Las Moras health center, Huanuco Department, Huanuco District, Peru. The sample consisted of 60 women who met the inclusion criteria. The Kupperman-Blatt Menopausal Index and the Cervantes Quality of Life Scale were applied. Results: According to the global assessment using the Kupperman-Blatt Menopausal Index, 55 percent of the patients were classified as presenting mild symptom intensity, followed by 35 percent of patients who reported no symptoms. This values were consistent with the Cervantes Quality of Life scale, with 45 percent of patients classified as presenting mild compromise of their quality of life, followed by 40 percent with medium compromise of quality of life. Conclusions: With a significance level of P<0.05, it was demonstrated that, during the climacteric stage, both tests present a positive correlation, regarding the intensity of the symptoms measured with the Kupperman-Blatt Menopausal Index and the quality of life assessed with the Cervantes scale(AU)

El climaterio como etapa fisiológica crucial en la prevención de la enfermedad cardiovascular / The climacteric as a crucial physiological stage in the prevention of cardiovascular disease

El climaterio es una etapa fisiológica que permite al médico reconocer tempranamente los riesgos de patologías y la gran oportunidad de revertirlas. Este trabajo examinará la evidencia actual de la terapia hormonal en la prevención primaria de la enfermedad cardiovascular en mujeres, así como la importancia que igualmente tienen la indemnidad de los ovarios, el peso normal, el uso correcto de antibióticos, la preservación de la microbiota intestinal, las dietas antioxidantes, los estilos de vida saludables y el obligatorio abandono del hábito de fumar.

Relationship between vestibular dysfunction and quality of life in climacteric women / Relação entre disfunção vestibular e qualidade de vida em mulheres climatéricas

Abstract The hormonal changes in climacteric women may affect the vestibular system; however, it is not clear in the literature whether the presence of vestibular dysfunction associated with climacteric is related to poorer quality of life. The study sample was composed of 374 women (40-65 years). Socioeconomic and demographic data, menopausal status, practice of physical exercises, presence or absence of vestibular dysfunction, hypertension and diabetes, anthropometric measurements and quality of life (using the Utian Quality of Life Scale - UQoL) were collected. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson test, Anova, T-test, and multiple regression considering a significance level of 5%. A significant relationship was found between vestibular dysfunction and health (p = 0.02) and emotional (p = 0.01) domains of the UQoL. In addition, physical activity, menopausal status, body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), household income and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) mean also remained significantly related to quality of life. A relationship between vestibular dysfunction and quality of life for health and emotional domains in climacteric women was observed.

Resumo Mudanças hormonais em mulheres climatéricas podem afetar o sistema vestibular, porém, não está claro na literatura se a presença da disfunção vestibular associada ao climatério está relacionada à pior qualidade de vida. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a relação entre disfunção vestibular e qualidade de vida em mulheres climatéricas. Amostra composta por 374 mulheres (40 a 65 anos). Foram coletados dados socioeconômicos e demográficos, status menopausal, prática de exercício físico, presença ou ausência de disfunção vestibular, hipertensão e diabetes, medidas antropométricas e qualidade de vida (por meio do Utian Quality of Life Scale - UQoL). Na análise estatística foi utilizado teste de Pearson, Anova, teste t e regressão múltipla, considerando nível de significância de 5%. Verificou-se relação significativa entre a disfunção vestibular e os domínios saúde (p = 0,02) e emocional (p = 0,01) do UQoL. Além disso, atividade física, status menopausal, IMC (índice de massa corporal), RCQ (relação cintura-quadril), renda familiar e média da PAD (pressão arterial diastólica) também permaneceram significantemente relacionadas à qualidade de vida. Observou-se relação entre disfunção vestibular e qualidade de vida para os domínios saúde e emocional em mulheres climatéricas.

Narrative review of the epidemiology, diagnosis and pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse

ABSTRACT The exact prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse is difficult to establish. The anatomical changes do not always consist with the severity or the symptoms associated with prolapse. There are many risk factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse and this review aims to identify the epidemiology and pathophysiology while looking at the known risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse. PubMed search involved a number of terms including: epidemiology, risk factors, reoccurrence indicators, management and evaluation. Several risk factors have been associated with pelvic organ prolapse, all contribute to weakening of the pelvic floor connective tissue/collagen, allowing the pelvic organs to prolapse through the vaginal walls. Among the risk factors are genetic background, childbirth and mode of delivery, previous hysterectomy, menopausal state and the ratio between Estrogen receptors. The "Integral theory" of Petros and the "Levels of Support" model of Delancey enable us to locate the defect, diagnose and treat pelvic organ prolapse. The currently available demographic data is not reliable enough to properly estimate the true extent of pelvic organ prolapse in the population. However, standardization of the diagnosis and treatment may significantly improve our ability to estimate the true incidence and prevalence of this condition in the coming years.

Aspectos reprodutivos de mulheres celíacas no Brasil / Reproductive aspects in brazilian celiac women

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic enteropathy in response to ingestion of gluten. CD was associated with gynecological disorders. OBJECTIVE: In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the age of menarche, age of menopause, number of pregnancies and abortions in Brazilian celiac patients. METHODS: We studied 214 women diagnosed with CD and as control group 286 women were investigated. RESULTS: Regarding the mean age of menarche, a significant difference was found (12.6±1.40 in CD and 12.8±1.22 years in healthy group; P=0.04). Regarding abortions, in CD women 38/214 (17.8%) and 28/286 (9.8%) in the control group reported abortion (P=0.0092, OR:1.98; CI95%=1.1- 3.3). There was no significant difference in the mean age of menopause nor number of pregnancies per woman. CONCLUSION: In this study, we found that celiac women had a higher mean age of menarche and higher risk of spontaneous abortions.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A doença celíaca é uma enteropatia crônica em resposta à ingestão de glúten e já foi associada a distúrbios ginecológicos. OBJETIVO: Neste estudo retrospectivo, visamos investigar a idade da menarca, idade da menopausa, número de gestações e abortos em pacientes celíacas brasileiras. MÉTODOS: Foram estudadas 214 mulheres com diagnóstico de doença celíaca e no grupo controle, 286 mulheres foram investigadas. RESULTADOS: Em relação à média de idade da menarca foi encontrada diferença significativa (12,6±1,40 na doença celíaca e 12,8±1,22 anos no grupo controle; P=0,04). Em relação aos abortos, nas mulheres com doença celíaca 38/214 (17,8%) relataram ter tido pelo menos um abortamento espontâneo, enquanto que 28/286 (9,8%) no grupo controle relataram aborto (P=0,0092, OR: 1,98; IC95% = 1,1-3,3). Não houve diferença significativa na idade média da menopausa nem no número de gestações por mulher. CONCLUSÃO: Neste estudo, constatamos que as mulheres celíacas apresentaram maior idade média de menarca e maior risco de abortos espontâneos.

Perceptions and feelings about physical changes in climacteric women / Percepciones y sentimientos sobre los cambios corporales de mujeres climatéricas / Percepções e sentimentos sobre as alterações corporais de mulheres climatéricas

ABSTRACT Objective: To know the perceptions and feelings about the physical changes of climacteric women in a city of Rio Grande do Sul. Methods: Qualitative exploratory descriptive study developed with 16 women on public spaces of Porto Alegre/RS/Brazil, in September and October of 2018; data gathered through semi-structured interviews and submitted to thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were found: "Knowledge (or not) on climacteric and menopause (and their differences)", "Changes perceived", "Changes felt", and "How to deal with climacteric and menopause". Conclusions: Women have little information on climacteric; it is the nurses' responsibility to clarify about these phases, offer emotional support and indicate physical activities that may ease their signs and symptoms.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Conocer las percepciones y sentimientos acerca de las alteraciones corporales de mujeres climatéricas en una ciudad de Rio Grande do Sul. Métodos: Investigación cualitativa exploratoria-descriptiva realizada con 16 mujeres en espacios públicos de Porto Alegre/RS/Brasil, en septiembre y octubre de 2018, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y cuyas informaciones pasaron por análisis temático. Resultados: Se han obtenido cuatro temas: "Conocimiento (o no) sobre el climaterio y la menopausia (y sus diferencias)", "Alteraciones observadas", "Cambios sentidos" y "Cómo lidiar con el climaterio y la menopausia". Conclusiones: Las mujeres poseen poca información sobre el climaterio; es responsabilidad de la enfermera aclarar sobre los pasos, ofrecer ayuda emocional e indicar actividades físicas que pueden aligerar sus señales y síntomas.

RESUMO Objetivo: Conhecer as percepções e sentimentos sobre as alterações corporais de mulheres climatéricas em uma cidade do Rio Grande do Sul. Método: Pesquisa qualitativa exploratório-descritiva realizada com 16 mulheres, em setembro e outubro de 2018, em espaços públicos de Porto Alegre/RS, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e cujas informações passaram por análise temática. Resultados: Foram obtidos quatro temas: "Conhecimento (ou não) sobre o climatério e a menopausa (e suas diferenças)", "Alterações percebidas", "Alterações sentidas" e "Como lidar com o climatério e a menopausa". Conclusão: As mulheres têm poucas informações sobre o climatério; à enfermeira cabe esclarecer sobre suas fases, oferecer suporte emocional e indicar atividades físicas que podem amenizar seus sinais e sintomas.

Clinical features and management of women with borderline ovarian tumors in a single center in Brazil / Características clínicas e manejo de mulheres com tumores borderline de ovário em um hospital no Brasil

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study was to describe and analyze data of 57 women with borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs) regarding histological characteristics, clinical features and treatment management at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp, in the Portuguese acronym). Methods The present retrospective study analyzed data obtained from clinical and histopathological reports of women with BOTs treated in a single cancer center between 2010 and 2018. Results A total of 57 women were included, with a mean age of 48.42 years old (15.43- 80.77), of which 30 (52.63%) were postmenopausal, and 18 (31.58%) were < 40 years old. All of the women underwent surgery. A total of 37 women (64.91%) were submitted to complete surgical staging for BOT, and none (0/57) were submitted to pelvic or paraortic lymphadenectomy. Chemotherapy was administered for two patients who recurred. The final histological diagnoses were: serous in 20 (35.09%) cases, mucinous in 26 (45.61%), seromucinous in 10 (17.54%), and endometrioid in 1 (1.75%) case. Intraoperative analyses of frozen sections were obtained in 42 (73.68%) women, of which 28 (66.67%) matched with the final diagnosis. The mean follow-up was of 42.79 months (range: 2.03-104.87 months). Regard ingthe current status of the women, 45(78.95%) are alive without disease, 2(3.51%) arealive with disease, 9 (15.79%) had their last follow-up visit > 1 year beforethe performanceof the present study but arealive, and 1 patient(1.75%) died of another cause. Conclusion Women in the present study were treated according to the current guidelines and only two patients recurred.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever uma série de 57 mulheres com tumores borderline de ovário (TBO) em relação às características histológicas, clínicas, e ao manejo do tratamento realizado no Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp). Métodos O presente estudo retrospectivo analisou dados obtidos dos registros clínicos e histopatológicos de mulheres com TBO tratadas em um único centro oncológico de 2010 a 2018. Resultados Um total de 57 mulheres foram incluídas, com uma média de idade de 48,42 anos (15,43-80,77), das quais 30 (52,63%) eram menopausadas, e 18 (31,58%) tinham < 40 anos. Todas as mulheres foram operadas. Um total de 37 mulheres (64,91%) foram submetidas a cirurgia de estadiamento completo para TBO, e nenhuma foi submetida a linfadenectomia pélvica ou paraórtica. O tratamento com quimioterapia foi administrado em duas pacientes que recidivaram. Os diagnósticos histológicos finais foram: seroso em 20 mulheres (35,09%), mucinoso em 26 (45,61%), seromucinoso em 10 (17,54%) e endometrióide em 1 (1,75%). A avaliação histológica intraoperatória foi realizada em 42 (73,68%) das mulheres, das quais 28 (66,67%) foram compatíveis com os diagnósticos finais. O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 42,79 meses (variando de 2,03 a 104,87 meses). Em relação ao status atual das mulheres, 45 (78.95%) estão vivas sem doença, 2 (3,51%) estão vivas com doença, 9 (15.79%) tiveram a última consulta de seguimento há > 1 ano antes da realização do presente estudo, mas estão vivas, e 1 paciente faleceu por outra causa. Conclusão As mulheres do presente estudo foram tratadas de acordo com as recomendações atuais e apenas duas mulheres apresentaram recorrência.

Reality of premature ovarian failure in Argentina

SUMMARY Premature Ovarian Insufficiency is defined as a decline in ovarian function that is accompanied by two biochemical determinations of Follicle Stimulating Hormone in hypergonadotropic values, in addition to low levels of circulating estrogens in women under 40 years old. Although some of its possible etiologies are recognized and diagnosed, most of the time, its cause remains unknown. It is a pathology with medical, psychological, and reproductive implications. Patients may experience climacteric symptoms, infertility, and emotional distress. In the medium and long term, cardiovascular and bone health can be affected, and some degree of cognitive deterioration can be evidenced. The therapeutic approach needs to be comprehensive for the patient and multidisciplinary. SAEGRE created in Argentina an interhospital network dedicated to gathering relevant statistical information regarding this and other pathologies in order to provide better assistance for these patients.

RESUMO Insuficiência ovariana primária é definida como um declínio da função ovariana acompanhado por dois determinantes bioquímicos do Hormônio Folículo Estimulante em valores hipergonadotróficos, além de baixos níveis de estrogênios circulantes em mulheres com menos de 40 anos de idade. Embora algumas das suas possíveis etiologias serem reconhecidas e diagnosticadas, na maioria das vezes sua causa permanece desconhecida. Trata-se de patologia com a implicações médicas, psicológicas e reprodutivas. Os pacientes podem vivenciar sintomas climatéricos, infertilidade e problemas emocionais. A médio e longo prazo, a saúde cardiovascular e óssea pode ser afetada, e algum grau de deterioração cognitiva pode ser observado. A abordagem terapêutica precisa ser abrangente para o paciente e multidisciplinar. A SAEGRE criou na Argentina uma rede interospitalar dedicada a reunir informações estatísticas relevantes sobre esta e outras patologias, a fim de proporcionar uma melhor assistência para esses pacientes.

Tendencias internacionales de publicación sobre el ejercicio físico en la menopausia / International trends in publications about physical exercise during menopause

Objetivo: identificar el estado de las publicaciones sobre el ejercicio físico en la menopausia indexadas en PubMed, PEDro y LILACS (2012-2016). Métodos: se aplicaron los siguientes indicadores bibliométricos: producción, autoría-colaboración, dispersión de Bradford e impacto. Para identificar los artículos más citados y el impacto de las revistas se consultó la Web of Science y para conocer el índice H de las revistas el SCImago Journal Rank. Resultados: se recuperaron 137 registros de 86 revistas. El crecimiento de la producción ha sido lineal (R2= 0,99). La temática más estudiada fue: menopausia (58,04 por ciento), posmenopausia (22,37 por ciento), perimenopausia (5,59 por ciento), calidad de vida (14,05 por ciento), trastornos metabólicos (7,23 por ciento), osteoporosis (5,88 por ciento), cambios vasomotores (3,19 por ciento) y cardiovasculares (1,35 por ciento), cáncer (3,16 por ciento), dolor y sueño (0,90 por ciento). El índice de transitoriedad representó el 89,43 por ciento. El principal productor fue Estados Unidos (18,97 por ciento) y el autor más relevante fue R. Luoto (6,61 por ciento). Las coautorías representaron el 97,10 por ciento de la producción (5,68 ± 4,31); la colaboración institucional el 46,10 por ciento (1,75 ± 0,62) y por países el 11,27 por ciento (1,14 ± 0,17). R. Luoto fue el autor con mayor centralidad e intermediación en la red de colaboración. El 58,14 por ciento de las revistas presentaron factor de impacto. Casi la totalidad de la producción estaba publicada en inglés. Las revistas del núcleo fueron: Menopause, Climacteric, Maturitas, Age, BMC Women's Health, Osteoporosis International y Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia. Se destacaron Maturitas, por su impacto, y Menopause, por su producción. Conclusiones: los resultados muestran falta de consolidación científica sobre la temática estudiada. El crecimiento anual de la producción es pobre, y el índice de transitoriedad elevado. La tendencia es a publicar en revistas internacionales anglosajonas para tener una mayor visibilidad. Se deben involucrar más investigadores de diferentes regiones geográficas y es necesario continuar investigando sobre el campo(AU)

Objective: the purpose of the study was to identify the status of the publications about physical exercise during menopause indexed in PubMed, PEDro and LILACS (2012-2016). Methods: the bibliometric indicators applied were output, authorship-collaboration, Bradford dispersion and impact. To identify the more mentioned articles and the impact of the magazines, the Web of Science was consulted, and also SCImago Journal Rank to know index H of the magazines. Results: 137 records were retrieved from 86 journals. Output growth was found to have been linear (R2= 0.99). The topics most commonly dealt with were menopause (58.04 percent), postmenopause (22.37 percent), perimenopause (5.59 percent), quality of life (14.05 percent), metabolic disorders (7.23 percent), osteoporosis (5.88 percent), vasomotor changes (3.19 percent), cardiovascular changes (1.35 percent), cancer (3.16 percent), pain and sleep (0.90 percent). The transience index was 89.43 percent. The main producer was the United States (18.97 percent) and the most relevant author was R. Luoto (6.61 percent). Co-authoring accounts for 97.10 percent of the output (5.68 ± 4.31), institutional collaboration was 46.10 percent (1.75 ± 0.62), and country output 11.27 percent (1.14 ± 0.17). R. Luoto was the author with the greatest centrality and intermediation in the collaboration network. 58.14 percent of the journals had an impact factor. Almost the entire output was published in English. The core journals were Menopause, Climacteric, Maturitas, Age, BMC Women's Health, Osteoporosis International and Brazilian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Outstanding journals were Maturitas for its impact and Menopause for its output. Conclusions: results show lack of scientific consolidation in the topic dealt with. Annual output growth is poor, whereas the transience index is high. The trend is to publish in international English language journals to obtain greater visibility. Further research should be conducted about the subject, and more researchers from different geographic regions should be engaged(AU)

Características acústicas de vozes saudáveis de adultos: da idade jovem à meia-idade / Acoustic characteristics of healthy voices of adults: from young to middle age

RESUMO Objetivo Caracterizar as vozes de indivíduos adultos sem queixas vocais e verificar o efeito de gênero e idade a partir de um conjunto de medidas acústicas. Método Foram analisadas 176 gravações de vozes pertencentes a adultos com idades entre 19 e 59 anos, divididas em quatro grupos etários, por década, armazenadas em uma base de dados. Todas as vozes analisadas foram classificadas com ausência de desvio na qualidade vocal. Realizou-se análise acústica dos parâmetros: Frequência Fundamental (vogal sustentada e fala encadeada), Jitter , Shimmer e Noise-to-Harmonic Ratio por meio software Multi Dimension Voice Program (KayPentax). O efeito de gênero, idade e possíveis interações foram verificados por meio do teste Anova Fatorial. Quando necessário, realizou-se post hoc com o teste Least Significant Difference. Resultados Houve mudanças na voz em função da idade, com diminuição da Frequência Fundamental nas modalidades vogal e fala encadeada em mulheres e na Frequência Fundamental da fala em homens. Em homens, foi observado aumento da medida de shimmer com o avanço da idade. Foram verificadas diferenças entre os gêneros nas medidas de Frequência Fundamental, Jitte r e Noise to Harmonic Ratio. Conclusão Mudanças vocais decorrentes do avanço da idade podem ser identificadas acusticamente, no final da fase adulta e, em mulheres, essas mudanças podem ser marcadas previamente ao período da menopausa.

ABSTRACT Purpose Characterize voices of adult individuals without vocal complaints and verify the effect of gender and age with the use of acoustic measures. Methods One-hundred and seventy-six voice recordings belonging to adults between 19 and 59 years old, divided into four age groups, for decade, recorded in a database were analyzed. All voices analyzed were classified with no deviation in vocal quality. Acoustic analysis of the parameters was performed: Fundamental Frequency (sustained vowel and connected speech), Jitter, Shimmer and Noise-to-Harmonic Ratio through Multi Dimension Voice Program (KayPentax) software. The effect of gender, age and possible interactions were verified through the Factorial Anova test. When necessary, post hoc was performed with the Least Significant Difference test. Results There were changes in the voice as a function of age, with a decrease in the Fundamental Frequency in the vowel and connected speech modalities in women and in the Fundamental Frequency of the speech in men. In men, an increase in shimmer measure was observed with the advancing age. Differences between genders were found in the measures of Fundamental Frequency, Jitter and Noise to Harmonic Ratio. Conclusion Vocal changes due to advancing age can be identified acoustically at the end of adulthood, and in women, these changes can be marked previously to the menopausal period.

Los riesgos de no usar terapia hormonal de la menopausia: deterioro de la calidad de vida / The risks of avoiding hormone replacement therapy during menopause

Menopause is associated with several symptoms which, if they reach certain intensity, can severely impair the quality of life. Overall, 90.9% of Latin American women will have at least one climacteric symptom and in 25%, these will be severe. Musculoskeletal pain, physical and mental fatigue and depressed mood are the most common climacteric symptoms. Dyspareunia, mood disorders and irritability can significantly alter female sexuality. Hot flashes are the symptoms most frequently related to menopause by both physicians and patients. However, it is one of the less common menopausal symptoms. This symptom reflects the neurochemical brain disorders caused by estrogen deficiency. The central nervous system (CNS) is also involved in changes of body composition leading to higher adipose tissue accumulation during climacterium, deteriorating quality of life and increasing the risk for chronic non-transmittable diseases. Menopausal discomfort also overloads health systems increasing the demand for medical services and decreasing productivity by labor absenteeism. Hormone therapy of menopause (HTM) decreases menopausal symptoms and improves quality of life. If we do not prescribe HTM to those women who need it, we could deprive them from several potential health benefits.

Avaliação dos efeitos da exposição prolongada às isoflavonas em ratas na senescência: aspectos comportamentais, bioquímicos e anatomopatológicos / Evaluation of the effects of prolonged isoflavones exposure in rats on senescence: behavioral, biochemical and anatomopathological aspects

O envelhecimento é um processo acompanhado por uma série de mudanças físicas, fisiológicas e psicológicas, além de ser caracterizado pelo declínio de diferentes funções motoras e cognitivas, que afetam a independência do idoso. Particularmente na mulher, um acompanhante inevitável do envelhecimento é a menopausa. Desse modo, é natural o interesse em medidas terapêuticas que possam ser utilizadas para minimizar os sintomas da menopausa, bem como o prejuízo motor e cognitivo. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo (i) avaliar o efeito da idade nos aspectos comportamentais, neuroquímicos e de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados em ratas jovens (3 meses de idade), de meia-idade (12 meses de idade) e senescentes (18 meses de idade); e, (ii) avaliar os efeitos da administração prolongada (90 dias) de diferentes doses (50, 100 e 200 mg/kg/dia) de isoflavonas (ISOs) no perfil comportamental, na análise bioquímica sérica e de estradiol, na quantificação dos níveis de neurotransmissores encefálicos e achados anatomopatológicos em ratas de meia-idade. Os resultados da primeira etapa mostraram que: ratas com 12 e 18 meses de idade apresentaram: 1) diminuição da frequência de levantar e de grooming no campo aberto; 2) aumento do comportamento tipo-ansioso no labirinto em cruz elevado e na caixa claro-escuro; 3) prejuízo na memória espacial observada no labirinto de Barnes; 4) diminuição, sobretudo, nos níveis de dopamina e de seus metabólitos no córtex pré-frontal (CPF), no hipotálamo, no hipocampo e no estriado; 5) diminuição dos níveis dos hidróxidos 12 e 15/14 do ácido araquidônico (AA) no CPF de ratas com 18 meses de idade. Esses dados em conjunto evidenciam prejuízo motor e cognitivo, aumento do comportamento tipo-ansioso, bem como redução nos níveis de monoaminas e dos hidróxidos do AA com o avanço da idade das ratas. Em relação ao tratamento prolongado com diferentes doses de ISOs em ratas de meia-idade, os resultados mostraram que: 1) não houve alterações motoras e no comportamento tipo-ansioso; 2) evidenciou melhora no desempenho cognitivo espacial; 3) mostrou aumento nos níveis séricos de estradiol e 4) promoveu aumento nos níveis de glutamato e de GABA no CPF e no hipotálamo. Esses achados sugerem que o tratamento prolongado com diferentes doses de ISOs em ratas de meia-idade, foi capaz de melhorar a performance cognitiva espacial e esse efeito pode ser associado ao aumento dos níveis de estrógeno, bem como ao aumento dos níveis de glutamato e de GABA no córtex pré-frontal e no hipotálamo, evidenciando também um possível efeito neuroprotetor das ISOs em ambas regiões.

Aging is a process accompanied by a series of physical, physiological and psychological changes, besides being characterized by the decline of different motor and cognitive functions, which affect the independence of the elderly. Specifically, in women, an inevitable companion of aging is menopause. Therefore, it is of high interest therapeutic procedures that can be used to reduce the symptoms of menopause, as well as motor and cognitive impairment. Thus, the present study aimed to (i) evaluate the effect of age on behavioral, neurochemical and polyunsaturated fatty acids aspects in young (3 months old), middle-aged (12 months old) and senescent (18 months of age) female rats; and (ii) to evaluate the effects of prolonged (90 days) administration of different doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day) of isoflavones (ISOs) in the behavioral profile, biochemical and estradiol serum analysis, brain neurotransmitters levels and anatomopathological findings in middle-aged rats. Our first results showed that rats at 12 and 18 months of age: 1) presented a decrease in rearing and grooming frequency in the open field; 2) increase of anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze and light-dark box; 3) spatial memory impairment observed in the Barnes maze; 4) a decrease mainly in the levels of dopamine and its metabolites in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hypothalamus, hippocampus and striatum; 5) decreased levels of 12 and 15/14 arachidonic acid (AA) hydroxides in the PFC in 18-month old rats . These data altogether show motor and cognitive impairment, increase in anxiety-like behavior, as well as reductions in monoamine levels and AA hydroxides as the rat age progresses. Regarding the prolonged treatment with different doses of ISOs in middle-aged rats, the results showed that: 1) there were no motor or anxiety-like behavior alterations; 2) there was an improvement in spatial cognitive performance; 3) increase in serum estradiol levels and 4) increase in glutamate and GABA levels in the PFC and hypothalamus. These findings suggest that prolonged treatment with different doses of ISOs could improve spatial cognitive performance and that this effect may be associated with increased estrogen levels, as well as increased levels of glutamate and GABA in the prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus, evidencing a possible neuroprotective effect of ISOs in both regions.

Contraception and family planning at the extreme of reproductive life-climacteric / Anticoncepção e planejamento familiar no extremo da vida reprodutiva-climatério

SUMMARY Menopause is an endocrine phenomenon characterized by gradual estrogen decline. This is a stage in a woman's life in which contraception is extremely important as the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth increase, both maternal issues associated with higher incidence of comorbidities and issues related to fetal abnormalities, mitochondrial abnormalities, or genetic syndromes. On the other hand, there is a growing number of women who have postponed motherhood and need effective contraception, but without prolonging the return to fertility. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), low-dose oral hormonal contraceptives and non-oral contraceptives are preferred. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system is a very good alternative that can maintain endometrial protection after menopause. Definitive methods such as tubal ligation and vasectomy are options for couples that already have their offspring. In this review, we present evidence for contraceptive indication and the effects of hormonal methods on climacteric including options for contraception, control of bleeding during perimenopause and of climacteric symptoms, as well as the transition from such methods to hormone therapy if indicated.

Resumo O climatério é um fenômeno endócrino caracterizado pelo gradativo declínio estrogênico. Esta é uma fase da vida da mulher em que a contracepção tem crescente importância, uma vez que crescem os riscos no ciclo gravídico-puerperal, seja por questões maternas, associadas à maior incidência de comorbidades, seja por questões ligadas a malformações fetais, anormalidades mitocondriais ou síndromes genéticas. Por outro lado, é cada vez maior o número de mulheres que tem postergado a maternidade, necessitando de contracepção eficiente; porém, que não prolongue o retorno à fertilidade. Dá-se preferência para métodos contraceptivos de longa duração (LARC), baixas doses hormonais orais e administradas por vias não orais. O sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel é ótima alternativa, podendo manter proteção endometrial na pós-menopausa. Os métodos definitivos, como laqueadura e vasectomia, são opções para o casal com prole constituída. Nesta revisão apresentamos evidências para indicação e efeitos dos métodos hormonais no climatério, como opções contraceptivas, para controle de sangramento perimenopausa e de sintomas climatéricos, bem como a transição destes para a terapia hormonal quando indicada.

Prevalence and factors associated with urinary incontinence in climacteric / Prevalência e fatores associados à incontinência urinária no climatério

SUMMARY Objective: To estimate the prevalence and identify associated factors to urinary incontinence (UI) in climacteric women. Method: In a cross-sectional study with a stratified random sample, 1,200 women aged between 35 and 72 years were studied, enrolled in the Family Health Strategy in the city of Pindamonhangaba, São Paulo. Urinary incontinence was investigated using the International Consultation of Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form, while associated factors were assessed based on a self-reported questionnaire with socio-demographic, obstetric and gynecological history, morbidities and drug use. The prevalence of urinary incontinence was estimated with a 95% confidence interval (95CI) and the associated factors were identified through multiple logistic regression model performed using Stata software, version 11.0. Results: Women had a mean age of 51.9 years, most were in menopause (59.4%), married (87.5%), Catholic (48.9%), and declared themselves black or brown (47.2%). The mean age of menopause of women with UI was 47.3 years. The prevalence of UI was 20.4% (95CI: 17.8-23.1%). The factors associated with UI were urinary loss during pregnancy (p=0.000) and after delivery (p=0.000), genital prolapse (p=0.000), stress (p=0.001), depression (p=0.002), and obesity (p=0.006). Conclusion: The prevalence of UI was lower but similar to that found in most similar studies. Factors associated with the genesis of UI were urinary loss during pregnancy and after delivery, genital prolapse and obesity.

RESUMO Objetivo: estimar a prevalência e identificar os possíveis fatores associados à incontinência urinária (IU) em mulheres no climatério. Método: em estudo analítico transversal com amostra aleatória estratificada, foram estudadas 1.200 mulheres, entre 35 e 72 anos, cadastradas na Estratégia de Saúde da Família do município de Pindamonhangaba, SP. A IU foi investigada por meio do International Consultation of Incontinence Questionnaire – Short Form e os fatores associados, por meio de questionário autorreferido, contendo informações sociodemográficas, história ginecológica e obstétrica, morbidades e uso de medicamentos. Estimou-se a prevalência da incontinência urinária com intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%), e os fatores associados foram identificados por meio de um modelo de regressão logística múltipla realizada no Programa Stata, versão 11.0. Resultados: as mulheres apresentavam média etária de 51,9 anos, estavam na menopausa (59,4%), eram casadas (87,5%), católicas (48,9%) e declararam-se negras ou pardas (47,2%). A média de idade da menopausa das mulheres com IU foi de 47,3 anos. A prevalência de IU foi de 20,4% (IC95%: 17,8-23,1). Os fatores associados à IU foram perda urinária na gestação (p=0,000) e no pós-parto (p=0,000), prolapso genital (p=0,000), estresse (p=0,001), depressão (p=0,002) e obesidade (p=0,006). Conclusão: a prevalência de IU foi inferior, mas semelhante à encontrada na maioria dos estudos análogos. Os fatores associados à gênese da IU foram perda urinária na gestação e no pós-parto, prolapso genital e obesidade.

Sexualidad y climaterio: una mirada integral / Sexuality and climacteric: a comprehensive approach

Cuando hablamos de sexualidad humana debemos saber que estamos hablando de una compleja y cambiante interacción de factores biológicos y socioemocionales altamente influenciables por la familia, la religión y los patrones culturales. Esto se ve en los hombres y en las mujeres, especialmente en las mujeres. La sexualidad es un concepto intuitivo que cuesta definir. Según la Organización Mundial de la Salud, se define salud sexual como "un estado de bienestar físico, emocional, mental y social relacionado con la sexualidad, la cual no es solamente la ausencia de enfermedad, disfunción o incapacidad". Es una definición que tiene en cuenta varios conceptos, muy importantes todos ellos. La respuesta sexual consiste en una serie de cambios neurofisiológicos, hemodinámicos y hormonales que involucran al conjunto del organismo. Si bien es similar en ambos sexos, en las mujeres no siempre el inicio y la progresión se correlacionan en forma sistemática o lineal como en los hombres. Y de ese intrigante devenir de la respuesta sexual femenina surge la dificultad del diagnóstico de la "disfunción sexual femenina". Podríamos resumirla en "un conjunto de trastornos en los que los problemas fisiológicos o psicológicos dificultan la participación o la satisfacción en las actividades sexuales; lo cual se traduce en la incapacidad de una persona para participar en una relación sexual de la forma que le gustaría hacerlo"16. La menopausia es percibida por muchas mujeres como el fin de la sexualidad, y no solo como el fin de la vida reproductiva. Si bien es cierto que en esta etapa la actividad sexual suele declinar y puede verse afectada por una serie de factores hormonales, psicológicos y socioculturales, para la mayoría de las mujeres la sexualidad sigue siendo importante. Debemos comprender que la disfunción sexual femenina, en cualquier etapa de la vida, es multicausal y multidimensional. A la hora de realizar el abordaje de una paciente, debemos tener en cuenta todos los factores involucrados y saber con qué herramientas contamos. El abordaje terapéutico clásicamente incluye la terapia psicológica y la terapia hormonal. Sin embargo, recientemente se ha incorporado una nueva droga recientemente aprobada por la FDA de los Estados Unidos para el tratamiento del deseo sexual hipoactivo en la mujer: el flibanserín, un psicofármaco que actúa a nivel de mediadores del deseo sexual en el sistema nervioso central, favoreciéndolo. (AU)

When we talk about human sexuality, we know that we are talking about a complex and changing interaction between biological and socioemotional factors, which are highly influenced by society, family, religion and cultural norms. This can be seen in men and women especially in women. Sexuality is an intuitive concept difficult to define. According to the World Health Organization, it is defined as "A state of physical, emotional, mental and social well being related to sexuality, which is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or disabilityˮ. It is a definition that takes into account several concepts, all very important. Sexual response is a series of neurophysiological, hemodynamic and hormonal changes involving the whole body. While similar in both sexes, women are not always the onset and progression correlate systematically or linearly as in men. And that intriguing evolution of the female sexual response, the difficulty of diagnosis of "female sexual dysfunctionˮ. We could summarize it in "a group of disorders in which the physiological or psychological problems impede participation or satisfaction in sexual activities; which results in the inability of a person to participate in a sexual relationship the way she or he would like to do itˮ16. Menopause is perceived by many women as to the end of sexuality, not only as the end of reproductive life. Sexual activity declines with age, and may be affected by a number of hormonal, psychological and sociocultural factors, but, for most women it continues to be important. We must understand that female sexual dysfunction, at any stage of life is multicausal and multidimensional. When approaching a patient, it is important to know all the factors that are involved, and which tools we have for deal with it. Classically, the therapeutic approach has consisted of psychological therapy and hormone therapy. However, we have to consider a recently approved drug by the FDA for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire in women: Flibanserin. It is a psychotropic substance that acts on the mediators of sexual desire on the central nervous system favoring it. (AU)

Etapas del climaterio y función endotelial en mujeres de edad mediana / Climacteric stages and endothelial function in middle-aged women

Introducción: La disminución de los estrógenos durante el climaterio repercute negativamente en el endotelio vascular, y origina disfunción endotelial, cuyo significado clínico está aún por definir. Objetivo: determinar la frecuencia de disfunción endotelial en las etapas del climaterio. Métodos: estudio descriptivo transversal, en 133 mujeres de 40-59 años, sin factores de riesgo cardiovascular, seleccionadas en centros de los 3 niveles de atención del Sistema Nacional de Salud, entre mayo de 2012 y mayo de 2013. Se evaluó la función endotelial mediante la prueba de dilatación mediada por el flujo de la arteria braquial, y su relación con etapas del climaterio. Se exploró la asociación entre variables utilizando pruebas no paramétricas (Kruskal-Wallis). Resultados: en el 38 por ciento de las mujeres se encontró disfunción endotelial, más frecuente en la etapa temprana de la posmenopausia respecto a la tardía y a la perimenopausia (45,0 vs. 27,5 vs. 27,5 por ciento respectivamente [p< 0,05]). Conclusiones: la disfunción endotelial es un evento frecuente en las mujeres de edad mediana aparentemente sanas, y al parecer, el descenso inicial de los estrógenos en los primeros años de la posmenopausia, tiene mayor impacto negativo en el endotelio vascular que el tiempo de exposición al hipoestrogenismo(AU)

Introduction: Estrogen reduction during the climacteric has a negative effect on the vascular endothelium and causes endothelial dysfunction, whose clinical significance is still to be defined.Objective: determine the frequency of endothelial dysfunction in the different stages of climacteric. Methods: a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted of 133 women aged 40-59 with no cardiovascular risk factors, selected from institutions of the three health care levels within the National Health System from May 2012 to May 2013. Endothelial function was evaluated using the brachial artery flow-mediated dilation test and its association with climacteric stages. The relationship between variables was analyzed using non-parametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis). Results: 38 percent of the women had endothelial dysfunction, which was more common in the early stage of post-menopause than in the late stage and in perimenopause (45.0 vs. 27.5 vs. 27.5 percent, respectively [p< 0.05]). Conclusions: endothelial dysfunction is a common event among seemingly healthy middle-aged women. It seems that the initial reduction in estrogens in the first years of post-menopause has a greater negative impact on the vascular endothelium than the time of exposure to hypoestrogenism(AU)

Serum interleukin-17 levels are associated with nephritis in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVES: To determine the serum interleukin-17 (IL-17) levels in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients and to evaluate the association between IL-17 and clinical manifestations, disease activity, laboratory findings and treatment. METHODS: We included 67 consecutive childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients [61 women; median age 18 years (range 11-31)], 55 first-degree relatives [50 women; median age 40 years (range 29-52)] and 47 age- and sex-matched healthy controls [42 women; median age 19 years (range 6-30)]. The childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients were assessed for clinical and laboratory systemic lupus erythematosus manifestations, disease activity [Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)], cumulative damage [Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Damage Index] and current drug use. Serum IL-17 levels were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using commercial kits. RESULTS: The median serum IL-17 level was 36.3 (range 17.36-105.92) pg/mL in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 29.47 (15.16-62.17) pg/mL in healthy controls (p=0.009). We observed an association between serum IL-17 levels and active nephritis (p=0.01) and migraines (p=0.03). Serum IL-17 levels were not associated with disease activity (p=0.32), cumulative damage (p=0.34), or medication use (p=0.63). CONCLUSION: IL-17 is increased in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus and may play a role in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric and renal manifestations. Longitudinal studies are necessary to determine the role of IL-17 in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus. .

Epidemiologia da menopausa e dos sintomas climatéricos em mulheres de uma região metropolitana no sudeste do Brasil: inquérito populacional domiciliar / Factors associated with menopausal symptoms in women from a metropolitan region in Southeastern Brazil: a population-based household survey

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a idade da menopausa e os fatores associados aos sintomas menopausais em mulheres de uma região metropolitana do sudeste do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Um estudo exploratório de corte-transversal foi realizado com 749 mulheres entre 45 e 60 anos (pesquisa de base populacional). A variável dependente foi a intensidade dos sintomas menopausais avaliada através do escore total do questionário Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). As variáveis independentes foram características sociodemográficas, problemas e hábitos de saúde, auto-percepção de saúde e antecedentes ginecológicos. A análise estatística foi realizada com o teste do χ2 e regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS: A média etária das mulheres entrevistadas foi 52,5 (±4,4) anos. Com relação ao estado menopausal, 16% das mulheres encontravam-se na pré-menopausa, o mesmo número na perimenopausa e 68% estavam na pós-menopausa. A média de idade de ocorrência da menopausa foi 46,5±5,8 anos. A intensidade dos sintomas menopausais foi definida de acordo com a mediana do escore total do MRS e foi considerada severa para valores acima de 8. Depressão/ansiedade (RP=1,8; IC95% 1,5-2,2; p<0,01), doenças osteoarticulares (RP=1,5; IC95% 1,2-1,7; p<0,01), auto-percepção do estado geral de saúde regular, ruim ou péssimo (RP=1,4; IC95% 1,2-1,7; p<0,01), antecedente de algum aborto (RP=1,3; IC95% 1,1-1,5; p<0,01), tratamento para menopausa atual ou prévio (RP=1,2; IC95% 1,1-1,4; p<0,01), estar na perimenopausa ou pós-menopausa (RP=1,4; IC95% 1,1-1,8; p=0,01), número de partos normais >1 (RP=1,2; IC95% 1,02-1,4; p=0,02) e asma (RP=1,2; IC95% 1,01-1,4; p=0,03) se associaram a maior severidade de sintomas menopausais. Apresentar maior idade (RP=0,96; IC95% 0,96-0,97; p<0,01) se associou a menor intensidade de sintomas da menopausa. CONCLUSÃO: A intensidade dos sintomas menopausais está relacionada a um amplo conjunto de fatores. Entender e controlar estes fatores pode auxiliar na ...

PURPOSE: To determine the average age at the onset of menopause and to investigate menopausal symptoms in women in a metropolitan region in Southeastern Brazil. METHODS: A descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional study was conducted with 749 women (a population-based household survey). The dependent variable was the intensity of menopausal symptoms assessed by th Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). The independent variables were sociodemographic data, health-related habits and problems, self-perception of health, and gynecological background. Statistical analysis was carried out by the χ2 test and Poisson regression using the backward selection criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the women was 52.5 (±4.4) years. With regard to menopausal status, 16% were premenopausal, 16% perimenopausal and 68% postmenopausal. The mean age at the onset of menopause was 46.5 (±5.8) years. The intensity of menopausal symptoms was defined according to the median MRS score and was considered severe for values ​​above 8. Depression/anxiety (PR=1.8; 95%CI 1.5-2.2; p<0.01), rheumatic diseases (PR 1.5; 95%CI 1.2-1.7; p<0.01), self-perception of health as fair/poor/very poor (PR 1.4; 95% CI 1.2-1.7; p<0.01), history of abortion (PR 1.3; 95%CI 1.1-1.4; p<0.01), current or previous treatment for menopausal symptoms (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.1-1.4; p<0.01), peri- or postmenopausal status (PR 1.4; 95%CI 1.1-1.7; p<0.01), number of normal deliveries >1 (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.02-1.4; p<0.01) and asthma (PR 1.2; 95%CI 1.01-1.4; p<0.01) were associated with more severe menopausal symptoms. Older age (PR 0.96; 95%CI 0.96-0.97; p<0.01) was associated with less severe symptoms. CONCLUSION: The severity of menopausal symptoms was related to a wild range of factors, especially presence of chronic diseases, a larger number of pregnancies, use of hormone therapy, and worse self-rated health. A better understanding of these factors can help to reduce ...