What role does hsCRP play in Wechseljahre?

hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is an inflammatory marker that may play an indirect role in menopause (Wechseljahre). As estrogen declines, cardiovascular risk increases, and hsCRP is a well-established predictor of cardiovascular events. Some studies show that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women have higher hsCRP levels, likely due to hormonal shifts, increased visceral adiposity, and oxidative stress. However, hsCRP is not a diagnostic marker for perimenopause; it does not replace hormone testing (FSH, estradiol) or symptom assessment. Evidence is based on observational and epidemiological data, not interventional trials. Caveat: hsCRP is influenced by lifestyle, infections, and chronic conditions. A single elevated reading requires clinical context. While hsCRP can aid in cardiovascular risk assessment during menopause, it should not be used alone for management decisions. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized evaluation.