Daijiworld Media Network – Auckland

Auckland, Jun 6: Women who experience early puberty and late menopause leading to a longer reproductive span may enjoy healthier brain ageing and a reduced risk of dementia, a new study has revealed.

Researchers found that prolonged exposure to oestradiol, a key hormone during a woman’s reproductive years, could offer a protective effect on the brain. The hormone peaks during puberty, remains high through reproductive years, and drops sharply around menopause — a decline linked to increased dementia risk.

“These findings support the idea that oestradiol may help protect the brain as it ages,” said lead researcher Eileen Lueders, Associate Professor at the University of Auckland’s School of Psychology.

The study analysed data from 1,006 postmenopausal women who underwent brain scans twice over two years. Results showed that those with earlier menarche, later menopause, and a longer reproductive window had less brain ageing.

Published in the journal GigaScience, the study suggests hormone-based interventions before and after menopause could help reduce Alzheimer’s risk in some women.

However, Lueders cautioned that the findings, while promising, were modest and did not directly measure oestradiol levels. She also noted that genetics, lifestyle, and overall health significantly influence brain ageing.

Researchers aim to conduct future studies with more diverse participants and direct hormone tracking to better understand the hormonal influence on women’s brain health.