Postmenopause: Stage after the cessation of ovarian function, usually ≥12 months without menstruation.
- Oncology relevance:
- Low estrogen state; influences breast cancer biology.
- Endocrine therapy: Aromatase inhibitors are preferred for ER/PR-positive tumors; ovarian suppression is not needed.
- Pharmacist note: Postmenopausal status guides drug selection and dosing, especially for hormone receptor–positive breast cancer.