Investigating the roles of ovarian sex hormones on cerebral hemodynamics in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women

After menopause, women face increased risks of cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke, compared to their pre-menopausal years. Ovarian sex hormones, primarily estrogen, have protective effects on blood vessels, but we do not fully understand how the decline in estrogen with menopause affects brain blood vessel health.

This study will investigate how menopause affects brain vascular function by comparing brain blood flow responses in naturally cycling pre-menopausal women and post-menopausal women who are not using hormone therapy. Data from vessels inside (middle cerebral artery) and outside (internal carotid artery) the brain will be collected to assess how hormonal changes associated with menopause can contribute to brain vascular function and thus, increased disease risk. The findings will advance knowledge in the field of aging by acknowledging the unique physiological adaptations that women face during and after menopause. The study aims to develop our understanding of how hormonal changes influence long-term vascular and brain health in women.