Weight gain in perimenopausal women: methods for assessing the body composition and maintenance tactics

Perimenopausal women show weight gain and a tendency for central fat distribution, which results in metabolic disorders that contribute to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Taking into consideration that the latter is the main cause of death in postmenopausal women, the importance of controlling body weight and the presence of visceral obesity just in menopause cannot be overestimated. For this, the anthropometric methods to assess adipose tissue distribution, which are characterized by their ease of use and widespread availability, can be used. The menopausal transition is a critical period when the use of optimal diagnostic and therapeutic approaches can prevent a number of undesirable consequences of changes in the hormonal profile. A healthy lifestyle (adequate physical activity, diet), as well as the use of combined oral contraceptives containing estradiol can inhibit the development of adverse changes in body composition and improve quality of life in perimenopausal women.

menopause, menopausal transition, obesity, metabolic syndrome, body composition, weight gain, waist circumference, body mass index, combined oral contraceptives