Abstract:
Menopause and ovarian dysfunction are consequences of ovarian aging, a continuous and natural process
in women. Early symptoms of ovarian aging include inadequate response to ovarian stimulation, irregular
menstruation, and loss of follicular function, which collectively contribute to a decline in fertility as women
age. The effects of aging…
Menopause and ovarian dysfunction are consequences of ovarian aging, a continuous and natural process
in women. Early symptoms of ovarian aging include inadequate response to ovarian stimulation, irregular
menstruation, and loss of follicular function, which collectively contribute to a decline in fertility as women
age. The effects of aging on the ovaries are more pronounced than on other organs, with deterioration in the
follicular pool and oocyte quality influenced by endocrine, genetic, and metabolic factors. This study aimed
to examine the correlation between menopausal symptoms and serum levels of vitamin D, anti-Müllerian
hormone (AMH), and other fertility-related hormones, as well as their impact on the timing of menopause.
Ninety-two female participants were recruited from the Fertility Center Laboratories and AL-Saader Medical
City in Al-Najaf province. A structured questionnaire assessing age, weight, height, and the severity of eleven
menopausal symptoms—rated on a scale from 0 (absent) to 4 (extremely severe)—was administered. Symp
toms evaluated included hot flushes, heart discomfort, sleep disturbances, muscle and joint pain, psychological
issues, and urogenital problems. Serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D,
AMH, and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured using the ELISA method. The results showed a signifi
cant negative correlation between serum AMH and vitamin D levels with menopausal symptoms and advan
cing age in postmenopausal women. Vitamin D levels were also negatively correlated with age, depression
scores, and body mass index (BMI). Women with vitamin D deficiency and decreased AMH experienced more
severe menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, heart discomfort, depression, irritability, bladder problems,
and musculoskeletal pain. These findings suggest that low AMH and vitamin D levels during menopause,
compared to younger control women aged 20–40 years, may exacerbate menopausal symptoms. Supplementa
tion with vitamin D, AMH, and reproductive hormone regulators, alongside lifestyle management, may benefit
menopausal women suffering from fertility decline and severe menopausal symptoms
