Artificial ovaries may ease effects of menopause

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Scientists researching ways on how to deal with symptoms and overcome the effects of menopause have discovered a method which may lead to a better means of coping than the regular intake of synthetic hormones.

In a study published on Nature Communications titled “In vivo transplantation of 3D encapsulated ovarian constructs in rats corrects abnormalities of ovarian failure,” researchers found potential in implanting artificial ovaries. These could naturally produce hormones needed by the female body, particularly the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Such a procedure could potentially help in maintaining good health and prevent menopausal symptoms such as bone deterioration, weight gain and sleep problems.

The scientists claim the procedure could also work for women who had undergone cancer treatment or had their ovaries removed due to medical reasons.

Clinical trials are still a long way off. The team of researchers are currently studying how the procedure affected rats. Based on their findings, artificial ovaries grown in a lab started producing hormones a week after being implanted into rats.

According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Review, Cynthia Stuenkel, a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego and a spokeswoman for the Endocrine Society, found the study fascinating. She also wonders if introducing an artificial ovary could reverse menopause and bring back a woman’s period, along with its challenges. Alfred Bayle/JB

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