Birth Control and Hormone Therapy May Leave a Lasting Mark on Women's Brains
This study suggests lifetime hormone exposure may shape brain aging, though it cannot prove cause and effect.
In women aged 65 to 80, those who had used birth control pills earlier in life had more gray matter in several brain regions. Combining birth control with menopausal hormone therapy was linked to even greater volume and thicker cortex. Later menopause, meaning more natural hormone exposure, also tracked with healthier brain structure. Timing of hormone exposure may matter for long-term brain aging.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Several authors consult for or receive research funding from pharmaceutical companies including Eli Lilly, Roche, and Eisai. The remaining authors report no conflicts.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.