These hormones also decrease. The ovaries continue to produce small amounts of testosterone and some estrogen. Because hormone levels fall, changes occur in the entire reproductive system. The vaginal walls become less elastic, thinner, and less ridged. The vagina becomes shorter.
Secretions become scant and watery.
In both men and women, reproductive system changes are closely related to changes in the urinary system. Prior to menopause, fertility varies depending on hormone levels. Menopause is said to have occurred when there has been one year without a menstrual period. With menopause, reproductive capacity is lost. The hormones produced by the ovaries and by the pituitary gland are decreased.