High serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) during perimenopause at high altitude

Abstract

Abstract: This study investigated serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels in women over 40 years of age living at high altitude compared with women living at sea level in Peru, in order to explore possible mechanisms associated with earlier menopause at high altitude. The research included women from Lima (150 m) and Cerro de Pasco (4340 m), evaluating hormonal profiles in premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal participants. Results showed that women living at high altitude experienced menopause at a younger age and had significantly higher serum FSH levels during perimenopause compared with women at sea level, while estradiol levels showed no major differences. Elevated FSH concentrations in women aged 40–49 years at high altitude may contribute to accelerated ovarian follicular depletion and earlier menopause. The findings support the hypothesis that environmental conditions associated with high altitude may influence reproductive aging through hormonal mechanisms linked to ovarian function.