Does Menopausal Hormone Therapy Affect Brain Health? New Study Reveals Key Findings

Latest News . FemTalkAsia

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has been a hot topic for years, with many women wondering if it impacts cognitive function. A new study published in PLOS Medicine (November 2024) provides some clarity—short-term MHT does not have long-term effects on brain health in women who start treatment early in postmenopause.

What the Study Found

The Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) followed a group of healthy, early postmenopausal women. Researchers divided participants into three groups—one receiving oral estrogen, another using transdermal estrogen, and a third taking a placebo.

After four years, the results showed no significant cognitive decline or improvement in those who used MHT compared to those who didn’t. Nearly a decade later, in a follow-up study, the same participants underwent cognitive assessments, and the findings remained the same—short-term hormone therapy had no long-term impact on brain function.

What This Means for Women in Menopause

For women considering MHT to manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings, this study provides some reassurance. Short-term hormone therapy does not appear to harm brain health or provide cognitive benefits.

One of the study authors highlighted the importance of clear, science-backed information for menopausal women, saying:

“For women in menopause and the health care providers caring for them, getting direct, clear, and evidence-based information about menopausal hormone therapy is challenging. And they need data to guide their decisions.”

Should You Consider Hormone Therapy?

If you’re struggling with menopause symptoms, it’s important to discuss MHT with your doctor. While this study confirms that short-term hormone therapy does not impact cognitive function in healthy women, further research is needed for those with higher cardiovascular risks.

As new studies continue to explore menopause and brain health, staying informed can help women make the best decisions for their well-being.

Full Credit to: Short-term menopausal hormone therapy has no long-term cognitive impact, study finds