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Impact of hormonal changes on women's oral and ocular health

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2026-10-12 12:37 UTC → 2026-10-18 04:49 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Research indicates that hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause significantly impact women’s oral health. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can alter how gums, saliva, oral mucosa, and periodontal tissues respond to biofilm and other risk factors. For instance, puberty can increase inflammatory responses in the gums, while pregnancy increases susceptibility to gingivitis. Regarding menopause, data from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease program shows a substantial rise in oral disorders among menopausal women, increasing from 229 million in 1990 to 486 million in 2021. Projections suggest that by 2050, the number of menopausal women with oral health problems could reach 932 million. Common symptoms ~~during this stage~~ include dry mouth, changes in periodontal tissues, mucosal burning, and taste disturbances. Recent findings expand this scope to include ocular health. In observance of World Menopause Day, experts have highlighted that hormonal shifts also impact vision. Research involving nearly 2,000 women found that 64% of those in perimenopause or menopause experienced symptoms consistent with dry eye, though only one in four had received a diagnosis. Globally, dry eye prevalence is estimated at 79%, rising to over 80% in postmenopausal women. Symptoms include irritation, redness, itching, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Additionally, oral dryness affects approximately 70% of women in the menopausal stage. Medical professionals note that while hormonal shifts are a key factor, these symptoms may also be influenced by age, medication, systemic diseases, and hydration levels. ~~Clinical guidelines from NICE suggest~~ Experts emphasize that ~~red and white lesions or oral ulcers lasting longer than three weeks require urgent diagnostic pathways. Additionally, lifestyle factors such~~ these symptoms should not be dismissed as ~~smoking can statistically advance the onset of menopause by six to 18 months. There is also an evolution in~~ mere aging and recommend professional medical ~~terminology; ‘premature menopause’—occurring before age 40—is increasingly referred to as ‘primary ovarian insufficiency’ (POI), which the WHO classifies as a menstrual disorder.~~ evaluations.

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