Hormone Replacement Therapy and Its Potential to Boost Immunity in Menopausal Women

A recent study conducted by researchers at Queen Mary University of London suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may play a significant role in reactivating the immune system of women experiencing menopause. Menopause, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, leads to a decline in estrogen levels which has been linked to alterations in immune function. These changes can increase women's susceptibility to infections during and after the menopausal transition.

The research, published in the journal Aging Cell, provided a comprehensive analysis of how aging and sex differences shape immune responses, focusing on monocytes—critical immune cells responsible for early defense against pathogens. Blood samples from women under 40 and over 65 revealed that post-menopausal women exhibit an increase in inflammatory monocytes. These cells are less efficient in eliminating bacteria, partly due to reduced levels of complement C3, an immune protein vital for microbial destruction. Interestingly, men of similar age did not display these immune alterations, highlighting menopause's unique impact on women.

Further investigation showed that women using HRT had a more balanced immune profile, characterized by fewer inflammatory monocytes and higher levels of complement C3, aligning closely with the immune status of younger women. This suggests that HRT may help mitigate age-related immune decline, extending benefits beyond symptom management.

Dr. Emma Chambers, lead author and senior immunology lecturer, emphasized that menopause marks a critical turning point for women’s immune health. While HRT is traditionally used to alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and joint pain, these findings propose that it could also strengthen immune defenses and reduce infection risks. However, the researchers caution that further studies are necessary to confirm whether HRT truly decreases infection rates and to explore how different types or delivery methods of therapy influence immune outcomes.

With millions of women affected by menopause worldwide, understanding how hormone therapy can support immune resilience is increasingly important. Maintaining immune health in aging women not only improves quality of life but may also promote sustained productivity and well-being as they grow older.

For more details, see the full study: published in Aging Cell.