Study of Blood Pressure Regulation in Women with Premature, Early, or Typical-Age Menopause Aged 35 to 70

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how premature or early menopause affects the autonomic regulation of blood pressure BP in women. The study focuses on younger women aged 49 or below and older women aged 50 or above, aiming to understand mechanisms causing autonomic dysregulation of BP related to menopause. The study compares premature and early menopausal women to age-matched premenopausal or typical-age menopausal women to explore differences in sympathetic nerve activity and baroreflex sensitivity. The study involves diagnostic tests including microneurography to measure muscle sympathetic nerve activity MSNA, baroreflex sensitivity testing during resting conditions and stress maneuvers, and sympathoexcitatory maneuvers such as the Cold Pressor Test and a fatiguing arm contraction with post-exercise circulatory occlusion. Blood samples will also be collected to measure hormone levels like estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Participants are grouped by menopausal status and age to compare autonomic responses. Participants will undergo assessments lasting about three hours that include monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, sympathetic nerve activity, baroreflex function, respiratory rate, heart rate variability, perceived exertion, and pain. Blood tests will take approximately 75 minutes. The study will assess responses at rest and during stress to understand BP regulation. Safety and health history are considered during eligibility screening, and the total involvement includes these detailed physiological and hormonal evaluations.

Autonomic Regulation of Blood Pressure in Premature and Early Menopausal Women