Menopause may be associated with changes in the brain similar to those seen in Alzheimer’s disease, according to a large UK-based study that sheds new light on why women face a higher risk of dementia than men.
The research, published in the journal Psychological Medicine, analysed data from nearly 125,000 women, including more than 11,000 who underwent MRI brain scans. Scientists observed a loss of grey matter in brain regions responsible for memory, learning, attention, and emotional regulation.
Researchers suggest these changes may partly explain why women are almost twice as likely as men to develop dementia later in life.
According to Professor Barbara Sahakian of the University of Cambridge, the study’s senior author, the affected brain regions are those typically impacted by Alzheimer’s disease.
“The brain regions where we saw these differences tend to be affected by Alzheimer’s disease,” she said.
“Menopause could make these women vulnerable further down the line. While it is not the whole story, it may help explain why dementia is far more common in women.”
Key Brain Areas Affected
The study identified changes in several critical regions of the brain, including:
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The hippocampus, which plays a major role in learning and memory
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The entorhinal cortex, essential for memory formation and spatial navigation
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The anterior cingulate cortex is involved in attention and emotional regulation
Grey matter, which consists of neuronal cell bodies and their connecting dendrites, is vital for processing information, while white matter helps transmit signals across different parts of the brain and spinal cord.
HRT and Mental Health
The study also examined the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and found that its use did not appear to prevent grey matter loss. While women using HRT were more likely to report poorer mental health, researchers noted that many had pre-existing mental health challenges before starting the treatment.
Current NHS guidelines recommend HRT primarily for managing menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and sleep disturbances. However, researchers say there is still limited understanding of menopause’s long-term effects on brain health, memory, and mood.
Co-researcher Dr Christelle Langley stressed the importance of recognising the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany menopause.
“We need to be more sensitive not only to the physical changes, but also the mental health struggles women experience during menopause,” she said.
“There should be no shame in talking about it or asking for help.”
The researchers hope the findings will encourage further studies into women’s brain health and promote better support systems for those navigating menopause.
