The impact of ovarian aging on muscle strength and life quality in various reproductive aging stages

ObjectiveOvarian aging significantly impacts women's overall aging, affecting various systems including the musculoskeletal system. This study investigates the correlation between ovarian function and handgrip strength (HGS) across reproductive aging stages and their relation to health-related quality of life (HRQoL).MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted with female participants spanning all stages of ovarian function. HGS was measured using a dynamometer, and ovarian function was assessed via hormone levels (estradiol [E2], follicle stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH], prolactin [PRL], progesterone [P4] and testosterone). HRQoL was evaluated using the Sarcopenia-specific Quality of Life questionnaire (SarQoL). Data analysis involved analysis of variance and Pearson's correlations, adjusted for confounding factors.ResultsThe prevalence of possible sarcopenia increased from 3.8% in premenopausal women to 10.3% in postmenopausal women. After adjusting for covariates (age, SarQoL, FSH, LH, FSH/LH ratio, PRL, E2, P4 and testosterone), the negative correlation between HGS and the Kupperman Menopausal Index (KMI) was no longer significant. However, the positive correlation between HGS and the SarQoL remained significant in both the overall population and the postmenopausal group. The negative correlation between HGS and FSH was no longer significant after controlling for age, KMI, LH and E2; however, it persisted after controlling for the SarQoL, FSH/LH ratio, PRL, P4 and testosterone.ConclusionHGS is positively correlated with the SarQoL and negatively correlated with age in the overall population. No significant association was found between HGS and testosterone, E2, LH or FSH/LH ratio. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between HGS and the KMI or FSH.