A new study suggests the length of a woman’s reproductive lifespan may influence her risk for cognitive decline later in life. The research was published in the journal Menopause.
Researchers analyzed over 30 years of existing studies, including data from more than 14,000 women. They focused on the connection between reproductive lifespan, which is the time from a woman’s first period to her menopause, and cognitive health.
The findings indicate that a longer reproductive lifespan is associated with better maintenance of cognitive abilities. During the reproductive years, women are exposed to the hormone estrogen. Levels of this hormone drop after menopause.
The study authors note that women tend to experience cognitive decline at a faster rate than men. This has led to scientific interest in whether estrogen plays a protective role for the brain.
In contrast to the benefits linked to a longer natural reproductive span, the research found that hormone therapy did not show the same association with better cognitive performance.
Stephanie Faubion M.D., medical director for The Menopause Society, commented on the results. “This large observational study showed an association of longer reproductive span with better cognitive trajectories,” she said. “However, longer duration of hormone therapy use, either within or outside 10 years of menopause, was not associated with better global cognitive performance.”
Cognitive decline is an early sign of dementia, and women are disproportionately affected by dementia compared to men. These findings highlight the need for more research into the role of hormones in women’s long-term health.
The study also points researchers toward exploring new ways to help women preserve cognitive ability, given that hormone therapy did not replicate the potential benefit of a longer reproductive lifespan.
While genetics heavily influence reproductive timing, lifestyle factors can play a part. The study notes that adequate vitamin D levels can support fertility. Other factors mentioned include maintaining hormonal balance and eating a healthy diet.
The research adds to a growing body of work focused on women’s health, which has historically received less scientific attention than men’s health. Understanding the specific role of reproductive hormones is seen as key to addressing women’s health needs as they age.
