Longer reproductive lifespan linked to better brain health

A new study published in Neurology, involving 352 women, found that a longer reproductive lifespan was associated with fewer signs of damage to the brain’s small blood vessels.

Women who had used oral contraceptives or menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) also showed some signs of better brain health, including healthier connections between different areas of the brain and, for MHT users, fewer signs of small blood vessel damage.

However, this is an observational study meaning it cannot identify direct cause-and-effect relationships. Further research is needed to understand what these results could mean for women’s brain health as they age.

Dr Honorine Lebraud, Senior Partnerships Manager at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

“This study builds on growing evidence that reproductive and hormonal history may play a role in brain health as women age.

“Researchers found that women who had a longer reproductive lifespan and therefore experienced a longer period of natural oestrogen exposure, from their first period to menopause, tended to show fewer signs of damage to the brain’s small blood vessels. Meanwhile, women who had used oestrogen-based oral contraceptives or menopausal hormone therapy were more likely to exhibit additional signs of improved brain health.

“While these findings are interesting, further research is needed to understand these patterns, especially as nearly two-thirds of people with dementia are women. As an observational study, it cannot show that hormone exposure directly improves brain health or reduces dementia risk.

“For now, our advice remains unchanged. Women should not start or stop taking the contraceptive pill or HRT to reduce their dementia risk based on these findings. Decisions about hormonal treatments should continue to be made with a healthcare professional, based on individual health needs.”