Menopause is associated with a heightened risk for osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Little is known about the menopausal experience of women who partner with women (WPW) and whether their risk for menopause-related diseases may be higher or lower than their heterosexual counterparts. The aim of the present analysis was to describe the menopausal characteristics of lesbian and bisexual women who participated in the Epidemiologic Study of Health Risk in Lesbians (ESTHER). ESTHER was an anonymous, self-administered, survey conducted in Pittsburgh, PA, which assessed the lifestyle and health-seeking behaviors and medical histories of WPW. Questions regarding menstrual regularity, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and hormone replacement (HRT) were included as part of a broader assessment of reproductive and gynecological health. 1158 women responded to the survey (age range, 16-74 years). The present analysis was limited to lesbian and bisexual women only (n=1124, 90.5%).
Seventeen percent of ESTHER women were classified as perimenopausal or postmenopausal. Eleven percent reported a hysterectomy (mean age, 38 years) while 7.3 % reported an oophorectomy (mean age, 36 years). Of those reporting oophorectomy, 48.7% were bilateral. Among peri/postmenopausal women, 60.3% reported ever using HRT and 77.7% reported current HRT use. Average duration of HRT use among current users was 7 years. The data did not differ between lesbian and bisexual women. ESTHER data suggests that HRT use is prevalent among peri/postmenopausal lesbian and bisexual women. Furthermore, lesbian and bisexual women may not differ dramatically from heterosexual women with regard to other menopausal characteristics.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Identify the health risks associated with the menopause 2. List and understand the key physiologic characteristics of the menopause 3. Discuss potential differences in the menopausal experience of lesbian/bisexual women and heterosexual women and how those differences could impact on health risk
Keywords: Lesbian Health, Menopause
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.