Final answer:
The hormone that is elevated during the menopause transition is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which occurs due to the reduced production of inhibin leading to a compensatory increase in FSH levels as the ovarian follicles deplete.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormone that is elevated during the menopause transition is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
During menopause transition, the level of FSH is elevated due to decreased production of inhibin.
As women approach menopause, changes in hormonal balances occur. These changes are primarily characterized by a decrease in estrogen production due to the depletion of ovarian follicles. Another critical hormone affected during this time is inhibin, which is crucial for regulating FSH levels through a negative feedback mechanism. When inhibin levels decline, the result is a compensatory increase in FSH. This rise in FSH can lead to the stimulation of more follicles, most of which undergo atresia (a process of degeneration) rather than properly maturing.
Consequently, even though estrogen levels fluctuate during the menopause transition, it is the surge in FSH that marks this period. The imbalance of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can lead to various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. These fluctuations are a result of the body trying to adapt to the diminishing ovarian function and the eventual cessation of menstrual cycles, signifying the end of reproductive age.