EC Gynaecology

Mammalian evolution can be described as a series of adaptations of each species developing their own reproductive mating strategy. Humans evolved from mammalian species that reproduced with simple mating strategies that relied largely on autonomic control of behavior that was synchronous with their reproductive physiology. Through evolution, these rudimentary neuronal mechanisms were gradually overlaid with new adaptations that provided additional benefit for survival and potentially speciation. However, not all ancient traits were erased by new traits but were simply overwritten by the new, more beneficial, traits. In combination, however, some evolved traits led to mixed results with unintended and often with unwanted results. For example, through evolution, estrus, or the psychic manifestations of “heat”, (the desire to mate) was suppressed. This trait, which was common to many female mammals, was dampened in higher primate species and ultimately was replaced by a social-sexual reproductive mating system that permitted “mate choice”. While this and other adaptation were largely beneficial to extant primate lineages, the advent of a prolong life span in humans has led to the re-emergence of ancestral neural links, which we now refer to as menopausal symptoms. Therapies, including diet, hormones and lifestyle changes can provide symptomatic relief, they cannot reverse the culminations of the evolutionary process

Keywords: Menopause; Evolution; Mating Strategy; Primate; Aging

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