Longer Reproductive Years May Promote Better Brain Aging in Women, New Research Finds

A recent study published in GigaScience indicates that women who have longer reproductive spans—lasting from their first period to menopause—may experience healthier brain aging later in life. Researchers analyzed brain scans from over 1,000 postmenopausal women and discovered that those with an earlier onset of menstruation, later menopause, or an extended reproductive period showed signs of slower brain aging.

Lead researcher Associate Professor Eileen Luders from the University of Auckland explains that estradiol, the primary and most potent form of estrogen during a woman's reproductive years, could play a protective role in brain health. The study's findings suggest that higher lifetime exposure to estradiol might help shield the brain from age-related decline, including conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Estradiol levels increase at puberty, stay elevated throughout most of a woman's reproductive phase, and decline sharply around menopause. This decrease has been associated with an increased risk of dementia, along with other neurodegenerative conditions. Animal studies support the idea that estradiol fosters neuroplasticity, reduces inflammation, and enhances communication between brain cells.

While the findings are promising, Luders notes that the observed effects were modest, and the study did not directly measure hormone levels. Various factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and general health also significantly influence brain aging.

The research team involved scientists from Germany, Norway, and Sweden, with brain data sourced from the UK Biobank. However, the sample was predominantly composed of healthy, socioeconomically privileged, white individuals. Luders emphasizes the importance of future research that includes more diverse populations and directly assesses hormone levels to better understand how estradiol impacts brain health.

This study adds to growing evidence suggesting that maintaining longer reproductive health may have benefits for cognitive aging. As women consider hormone therapy options around menopause, these insights could inform personalized approaches to support long-term brain health.

Supporters like Ph.D. student Alicja Nowacka highlight the significance of such research in fostering conversations about women's health choices and encouraging inclusive scientific studies dedicated to understanding brain aging in women.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-links-longer-reproductive-years-healthier.html