Nappi et al. conducted a narrative review examining the available local estrogen therapies used in the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Rather than generating new clinical data, the authors evaluated and synthesized findings from previously published studies to compare the efficacy, safety, absorption, tolerability, and patient acceptability of various vaginal estrogen formulations.

In what might be the best titled piece of menopause research on the internet - these researchers look at what factors influence menopause for most women. Now, you hear dark triad - you think psychological dysfunction - but it turns out Abbas et al., have things much more accurate - the real dark triad is for women in menopause and includes hormones, mood swings, and of course sleep. Let's take a look at what they found out...

The Pan-Asian REVIVE survey looked at women in five Asian countries and explored how menopause-related vaginal and urinary changes affect their daily lives, relationships, and wellbeing. The paper focused on what many healthcare providers now call genitourinary changes of menopause — experiences like vaginal dryness, discomfort with sex, irritation, itching, urinary urgency, and recurrent urinary discomfort that often accompany declining estrogen in the years after menopause.

Does medical cannabis help with menopause symptoms? Let's look at the science and find out!

When estrogen levels drop after menopause, intimate skin and the tissues supporting the pelvic floor can change in ways that nobody warned you about. Here's what estriol is, what researchers have been exploring, and why it's worth understanding.

In "The Impact of Estradiol Dynamics During the Menopause Transition on Depression Risk: A Narrative Review of Estradiol's Neurobiological Mechanisms," Nathan and colleagues explore why mood changes become so common during perimenopause and menopause. The review argues that the issue is not simply "low estrogen," but the instability and fluctuation of estradiol levels during the menopause transition — and how those shifts affect the brain.

A 2020 review in NYU Case of the Month made a point that resonates with a lot of women: what shows up as urgency, frequency, or recurring discomfort in the lower urinary tract is often connected to hormonal changes rather than a simple mechanical issue. As estrogen levels shift during the menopause transition, the entire genitourinary system shifts with them — and understanding that connection can change how you think about what your body is telling you.

This study takes a question many women quietly wonder about and gives it a proper scientific answer. Does when and how often you have babies come back to haunt or help you decades later...?

Using data from more than 15,000 postmenopausal women in the Women’s Health Initiative, the researchers looked at parity, meaning number of births, alongside age at first and last childbirth, and mapped that against health-related quality of life (HRQoL) later in life. This is not just “do you feel fine,” but a structured measure of physical function, pain, energy, emotional well-being, and ability to live your actual life without feeling like your body is betraying you.

(It’s a Neuroendocrine Event) particularly when it comes to mental health. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics best practice recommendations for the mental health of women at menopausal age make one thing very clear: menopause is not just about hot flashes and irregular periods. It is a full-scale neuroendocrine transition with real psychiatric implications. During perimenopause and beyond, women experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, mood instability, sleep disruption, and cognitive complaints... Duh... But, this is not incidental. Fluctuating estrogen levels directly influence neurotransmitter systems including serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), meaning your brain chemistry is quite literally being recalibrated in real time.

What is it, why are we talking about boosting it, and does it really 'stop' aging?

When it comes to supplements, there is always the newest 'thing' - anyone else remember vampire facials? But, that doesn't mean that some things don't have merit - it just means understanding what different things are and how they work (and the data behind them).

Let's dive into NAD+ and see why it's become so popular in supplements and skincare!

Menopause isn’t just hot flashes and mood swings, it’s a full-scale neurological shift happening in real time. And according to this study, we’ve been asking the wrong question all along. It’s not “Does hormone therapy help the brain?” It’s which woman, which menopause, which hormones, and when. Because when it comes to brain health, one size doesn’t just fit poorly, it actively obscures what’s really going on...

Izmailov et al. conducted a randomized controlled trial examining the use of transdermal estradiol combined with oral micronized progesterone in women in perimenopause. This overview summarizes the study design, key findings, and what the research may suggest for women navigating hormonal changes in this life stage.

This piece reviews the science behind how sex hormones influence skin aging in women — and what research has found when looking at hormonal changes and skin outcomes. The authors didn't run a single experiment. Instead, they reviewed clinical studies, lab research, and observational data to understand how skin changes before and after menopause, and how it responds to hormonal shifts. Key outcomes they tracked: collagen content, skin thickness, elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle formation.

In this article "The vagina as source and target of androgens: implications for treatment of GSM/VVA, including DHEA," Cipriani, Maseroli, Ravelli, and Vignozzi, examine how androgen hormones affect vaginal tissue and what the research suggests for vaginal comfort in menopause and beyond.

The authors conducted a review of existing research, including laboratory studies of vaginal tissue, molecular studies of hormone receptors, and clinical research on menopause. They analyzed evidence showing how vaginal cells respond to hormones and how those hormones are processed within the tissue itself.

As we age, some of our cells stop dividing and enter a state called cellular senescence. These cells are not dead, but they no longer function normally. Over time they build up in the body and contribute to aging, inflammation, and many chronic diseases.

Researchers - such as those who conducted this study - are increasingly interested in finding ways to reduce the number of these dysfunctional cells or limit their harmful effects.

This research asked a simple but important question: What happens to joint cartilage when estrogen and progesterone drop, like they do in menopause?

Have you joined the “why am I so dry everywhere” club? Well, you're not imagining it and you are not just dehydrated. Dry, itchy, uncomfortable skin is one of those sneaky perimenopause and menopause symptoms that rarely gets talked about, mostly because women are told to blame stress, weather, aging, or their moisturizer instead of their hormones. The science tells a different story...

The major theme of this review is that vaginal lubricants and moisturizers are not all biologically equivalent. Two properties in particular, pH and osmolality, determine whether a product supports vaginal health or quietly undermines it. The review does not claim that all lubricants or moisturizers are unsafe. Rather, it emphasizes that biocompatibility matters.

Products that are closer to the vagina's natural pH and fluid balance are more likely to ease discomfort without increasing irritation or tissue sensitivity. In menopausal women, whose vaginal tissue is already affected by estrogen decline, this consideration becomes even more important.

Saunas have long been associated with relaxation and cultural tradition, but the scientific interest in sauna use has grown rapidly over the last decade. In the review The Impact of Sauna on Health, Dudzik et al., examine existing research on sauna bathing to clarify what heat exposure actually does to the body and which health outcomes are most consistently supported by evidence.

This is a scientific review that argues that pain in women is systematically under-recognized, under-researched, and under-supported, despite women experiencing more frequent, more severe, and more chronic pain than men across the lifespan. The authors frame pain in women not as a niche issue, but as a major public health and equity problem that deserves prioritization in research, diagnosis, and care.

Let's take a look at the article, and see how this impacts menopause...

When it comes to discussing menopause (outside of the Sexy Sassy Sisterhood!), things can range from awkward to outright confusion.

Although attitudes are - slowly - changing, these conversations aren't always easy - so we've got you covered with top tips to talking about menopause no matter where you are (or who you're with!).

This study examined how intimacy and sexual experience change for women during the menopausal transition — the years leading up to and immediately following menopause. The researchers focused on identifying which physical, hormonal, psychological, and relational factors most strongly shape sexual experience during this stage of life..

These articles look at how the skin can be encouraged to make more collagen, but they examine two very different methods.

The LLLT paper studies how specific red and near-infrared light wavelengths boost the energy inside skin cells and help fibroblasts make more collagen. The microneedling paper, on the other hand, looks at how tiny controlled injuries trigger the skin’s natural repair process, which also leads to new collagen and elastin. Together, these studies show that light and mechanical stimulation can both improve the skin, even though they work through completely different biological pathways.

For many women, the perimenopause years bring changes in head-pain patterns — and research suggests this is closely tied to hormonal instability rather than any single hormone level. Three recent reviews explore the science behind migraines, estrogen fluctuations, and the midlife transition.

A group of Swiss menopause researchers came together to review the science on vaginal DHEA (also called prasterone) and share what they've learned about its potential role in intimate comfort during menopause. Here's what the research is exploring — and why it matters for women navigating genitourinary changes.

Researchers in this 2022 study investigated how L-theanine—an amino acid known for its calming effects—and a newer compound called magnesium-L-theanine influence brain chemistry, relaxation, and sleep quality. While L-theanine is already associated with reduced stress and smoother brainwave activity, the authors wanted to know whether combining it with magnesium could enhance its neurological benefits.

Menopause has long been discussed in terms of symptoms. Far less attention has been given to what hormonal shifts may be doing to the brain behind the scenes. New 2022 research suggests the loss of estrogen may amplify the brain’s sensitivity to cardiovascular risk factors, reshaping how we think about menopause, aging, and long-term cognitive health.

Guest Authored by Dr. Robyn Kutka.

Something big just happened in women’s health—and it’s a win for all of us.

What if the thing making you feel older isn’t your age at all... but your stress levels? Emerging research shows that chronic stress doesn’t just drain your mood; it can actually speed up the biological aging process inside your cells. Before you panic, the science behind this is surprisingly empowering, and understanding it might just help you slow the whole thing down.

Researchers have explored how the GABA system — the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter system — is involved in mood and nervous-system regulation. This article looks at what that research has found, how GABA interacts with other biological pathways, and what scientists are learning about the role GABA plays in general brain chemistry and calm.

Muscle changes in midlife are real — and they're not just about skipping workouts. Hormones play a behind-the-scenes role in how muscle fibers grow, recover, and hold their strength as we age. A 2021 review in Frontiers in Medicine examined how declining sex hormones — including DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone — are associated with changes in muscle mass and strength over time.

This paper reviews what causes skin aging and why estrogen plays such a big role—especially in women. It also explores new research on compounds and the role on skin health that estrogen has.

This study examined which perimenopausal symptoms are most influential in driving other symptoms — and which ones act as “bridges” between emotional, physical, and psychological symptom groups.

Instead of treating each symptom separately (like sleep changes, mood swings, or hot flashes), the authors used network analysis, a method that evaluates how symptoms interact and reinforce each other.

A large national study — the 2015–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) — looked at how common bladder and pelvic floor changes are among U.S. women and what factors play a role. The findings were striking.

Menopause commonly shifts body composition toward more abdominal fat and less muscle - changes that increase cardiometabolic risk - and the best current strategy is resistance training, good sleep and nutrition, daily movement, plus individualized clinical options (including menopausal hormone therapy) when appropriate. In this narrative review, Anna Fenton summarized research about how weight, body shape, and body composition change during the menopause transition, discussed likely biological and lifestyle drivers, explored health consequences, and outlined management strategies.

Menopause reshapes the vaginal ecosystem: as ovarian estrogen falls, the vaginal lining produces less glycogen — the sugar that feeds protective Lactobacillus bacteria — and the environment becomes less acidic. These changes are associated with dryness, irritation, discomfort during sex, and more frequent infections, collectively referred to as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). This piece walks through the biology behind those shifts in plain language and explores what local estrogen and non-hormonal options are commonly discussed in that context.

The Swiss Perimenopause Study asked a simple but important question: which hormone better predicts a woman’s ability to cope with stress and maintain well-being during perimenopause—estradiol or progesterone?

From Alzheimers, to depression, to overall cognitive health - this comprehensive review explored the role of magnesium when it comes to the health of our brains...

Magnesium isn’t just about muscles and bones - it’s also a quiet powerhouse for your brain. Research shows that low magnesium levels are linked with higher risks of depression, migraines, and possibly Alzheimer’s disease. Supplement studies are encouraging, though results vary depending on the condition. The strongest evidence so far is for migraine prevention, while research on mood and memory is promising but not yet conclusive.

We've long treated progesterone like the hall monitor for estrogen. Cute, but incomplete. Research on postmenopausal women with disrupted sleep suggests that adding a progestogen to estrogen therapy was associated with meaningful improvements in sleep quality — and micronized progesterone was a touch easier to live with. If your nights feel like a toddler with a tambourine, it's worth knowing progesterone has a seat at the sleep table.

We all know skin changes with age — it gets thinner, drier, and loses that youthful bounce. One of the lesser-known drivers behind this transformation? A molecule called NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). Think of NAD⁺ as the fuel that powers your skin cells’ little engines (mitochondria). It helps convert nutrients into energy, repairs DNA, and supports protective enzymes that keep skin resilient. The catch: as we age, our NAD⁺ levels decline, which means our skin cells can’t work as efficiently as they once did. The result? Slower repair, less collagen, more visible fine lines, and thinner, more fragile skin.

Estrogen is associated with many of the visible qualities we notice in healthy-looking skin — hydration, elasticity, and a resilient complexion. As estrogen levels naturally shift during perimenopause and menopause, these visible qualities may change too. This article explores what the research says about estrogen's role in skin appearance and the topical approaches being studied to support the look and feel of mature skin.

DHEA is a hormone that naturally declines with age — and researchers have been exploring what that means for how our bodies maintain bone density, muscle mass, and joint comfort over time. Here's a plain-English look at what the science has found so far.

Perimenopause isn’t just about hot flashes and unpredictable cycles — it’s also a time when mood changes can hit hard. New research shows that it’s not simply low hormones causing the problem, but how wildly those hormones fluctuate. In particular, swings in estrogen and a lack of progesterone from missed ovulation may be key drivers behind the irritability, sadness, and brain fog so many women experience.

Is it just me or is it hot in here? How about, is it just us, or are women everywhere sweating their boobies off? This study asked just that (without the boobies part). Do women suffer hot flashes globally at the same percentages, or are there differences?

Let's take a look!

Are hidden chemicals hijacking your hormones? 😳

You might not feel sleep-deprived, but your brain does. New research shows elevated nighttime cortisol can silently sabotage your deep sleep—even when you think you're getting rest.

Estrogen isn’t just about hot flashes—it’s also your brain’s best friend. Studies reveal its powerful role in boosting serotonin and protecting memory during menopause.

Feeling like you’re on a hormonal rollercoaster? Turns out, wild mood swings aren’t just in your head—they’re in your hormones.

Summary for Real Life:

This study looked at older adults (men and women aged 65–75) and asked:
What happens when they take DHEA (a hormone that declines with age) and do resistance training?

Progesterone plays a role in the body's temperature regulation — a connection researchers have been studying for decades. When progesterone levels shift during perimenopause and menopause, so can the body's experience of warmth, sleep comfort, and metabolic rhythm. Here's an educational look at what the science shows.

Argireline® (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) is a lab-made peptide used in skincare to support the visible appearance of smoother skin — especially around areas prone to expression lines like crow's feet and brow creases. It works by gently interfering with the signaling process that tells facial muscles to contract. A protein complex called SNARE normally helps release neurotransmitters that trigger muscle movement; Argireline may help ease that process, supporting a more relaxed, visibly smoother look over time.

We talk about self care a lot... but what exactly is self care?

Let's take a look at research into self care, and get a better understanding of how we can take care of ourselves, why we need to, - and some good ways to do it!

Dr Robyn Kutka explains how chronic stress can affect cortisol levels over time. She also talks about how you can measure your levels using Salivary Hormone Testing.

Wondering what lube to choose from? It all comes down to osmolality...

Osmolality is like how salty or sugary a liquid is—think of it as the "crowdedness" of particles in a solution. If a lubricant is too "crowded" (hyperosmolal), it pulls water out of your cells, kind of like how salt on a slug draws out moisture.

Struggling with weight loss during menopause? This episode dives into the essential foundation you need, especially focusing on hormones and their impact.

This clinical trial examined whether inserting DHEA — a naturally occurring compound — into the vaginal area could support vaginal comfort and balance in postmenopausal women, without raising hormone levels elsewhere in the body.

We had a great question during our Ask Dr.Robyn show about the connection between migraines and estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause.

Curious about the link between belly fat and estrogen - listen to Dr. Robyn talk about how insulin and estrogen are connected...

This paper dives into how vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) — the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to estrogen loss — affects postmenopausal women. The authors review both clinical findings and large patient surveys, analyzing how widespread and disruptive VVA really is.

This clinical trial explored whether a single vaginal rinse with 3% hydrogen peroxide could support vaginal microbiome balance in women experiencing recurring vaginal disruption — offering a potential area of interest for those curious about non-antibiotic approaches to intimate wellness.

This article explores how menopause affects brain health, emphasizing that it's not solely about declining estrogen levels.

Does topical estrogen really "stay localized"? Let's look at what the science says about systemic absorption when estrogen is applied topically at low doses...

Can GABA cross the blood brain barrier? Well, the research is complicated as initially it was thought not, but as researchers looked at the BBB more (and GABA molecules) they found some pretty interesting information...

Now, whilst this study was looking at premenopausal women, it still holds value. This is because testosterone in women has not been nearly as well studied (like man other areas of women's health), but also because these help indicate ranges - specifically what optimal ranges - of testosterone for women might be - something that can be helpful for women in peri or menopause to help better assess their needs and potential BHRT use.

This study followed 30 healthy women for seven years, starting about three years before menopause, to track hormone changes during the transition.

When it comes to pets, there is the belief that they help promote longevity — with research suggesting that pet owners tend to show better heart health outcomes, as well as lower levels of low mood and stress. Couple that with the increased social connection that comes with having pets, and you can see how these outcomes occur.

This study examines vaginismus—a condition characterized by involuntary vaginal muscle spasms that make penetration painful or impossible—through a comprehensive lens that integrates biological, psychological, and social influences.

How Much Do You Really Know?

Think you’re an expert on menopause? This quiz will put your knowledge to the test! Answer these 20 multiple-choice questions to see how well you understand the science behind perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

Insulin and estrogen are two of the body's most influential hormones — and they don't work in isolation. Insulin manages blood sugar levels by helping glucose get into cells, while estrogen shapes energy balance, fat distribution, and a surprising amount of your metabolic life. Here's how they're connected.

This was heavy on the science, but offers some interesting insight into how hormone conversions can affect us as we age.

Take a look at our 'ELI5' (Explain Like I'm 5)  breakdown!

This study explores how social activity affects the health of women going through menopause.

DIM (Diindolylmethane) is a compound that comes from breaking down indole-3-carbinol, found naturally in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. What makes DIM especially interesting is how researchers study its relationship to estrogen metabolism — think of it like a traffic cop directing cars. Scientists are exploring how DIM may interact with the different pathways estrogen can take through the body.

Research has explored how constipation and diarrhea during the menopause transition relate to age, hormonal shifts, and stress-related factors — including cortisol levels and perceived tension.

One of the most common things women hear is that estrogen decline is responsible for a wide range of changes in perimenopause and beyond — and while there is a degree of truth to this, research has historically oversimplified the perimenopause experience by overlooking the significant role of progesterone, which tends to decrease more markedly than estrogen.

Does our culture affect our sex life in menopause? Well, according to some research, yes. This study looked at 30 in-depth interviews with women to assess how their sex lives were impacted my menopause. Aside from physiological changes, many women reported cultural and social issues as relevant factors in their sex lives.

Wondering whether you're really more stressed out in menopause or not? Science has the answer...

Otherwise known as Gray Divorce, the rise in divorce rates of those 60+ has become known as the 'Gray Divorce Revolution' and science has something to say about it...

We've talked about this a lot on our Ask Dr. Robyn segment, but many women aren't aware that their adipose tissue (fat cells) plays a role in estrogen production — and that research suggests shifting estrogen levels during midlife are associated with changes in how and where the body stores fat.

A survey of 139 UK menopause specialists explored gaps in mental health support for women navigating the menopause transition, and called for expanded access to psychological services. Shared here for educational purposes.

After menopause, estrogen levels often decline significantly, which can be associated with changes in how skin looks and feels — including dryness, visible lines, and a loss of that plump, supple quality. What's going on? When estrogen decreases, so does collagen production, along with the skin's natural cushion and softness.

This research paper examines how menopause affects the brain structure, potentially impacting cognitive function in women.

This study explored the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). It discusses the effectiveness and harms of vaginal estrogen, non-estrogen hormone therapies, and vaginal moisturizers for treatment of GSM symptoms.

This was a study about the effects of estrogen and progesterone on the brain. It discusses the effects of these hormones on emotion and cognition.

There is a lot of confusion when it comes to bioidentical hormones - and one of the biggest ones is, "does this come from animals?"

Did you know there are two types of aging?

• Intrinsic Aging: A natural, time-dependent process influenced by hormonal changes.
• Extrinsic Aging: Caused by external factors, primarily UV radiation.

This was an interesting study, which explored female responses to visual pornography.

When it comes to painful sex, there are lots of ways we can hurt - from stabbing or sharp pain, to pressure, to 'cheese grater' sensations - why do these different sensations occur and what can we do about it?

Black cohosh is a flowering plant native to North America with a long history of traditional use. Native American communities relied on its roots for generations, and it later became one of the most widely recognized botanicals in women's wellness. Here's what we know — and what's still being explored.

Progesterone has been a growing subject of interest in menopause research. This article takes a plain-English look at what current studies explore — including how progesterone differs from synthetic progestins, and what researchers are examining around midlife comfort and wellbeing. For anyone curious about the science, this is a good starting point.

A large-scale study explored the relationship between hormonal changes during the menopause transition and emotional well-being. The key takeaway: women are not universally or uniformly at risk of emotional changes during this time, and many factors — including sleep, life stress, and individual history — shape each person's experience.

This article explores the role of progesterone in the body, particularly its association with mood and emotional balance across the menstrual cycle. Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone whose levels shift throughout the cycle — and some research suggests those fluctuations may be connected to how many women feel during different phases.

The Mental Health of Menopause

We are in the age of a menopause revolution - or so we hear - as companies embrace older women (hello, Boom by Cindy Joseph) and silver haired actresses grace the silver (or 3D) screen. But, are menopause attitudes actually changing, or does this visibility just pay lip service to actual change?

When it comes to DHEA use, it can be confusing for women to know whether DHEA is a good option for them - research has been limited, and DHEA as a precursor hormone changes into other hormones (namely, testosterone, estradiol, and estriol) meaning it does not behave the same way in everyone. However, this research suggests that there is clear clinical evidence for two groups: those with low circulating DHEA, and those with osteoporosis.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a vital molecule found in all living cells.

Using over 300 women, this test aimed to look at the efficacy of saliva testing for women's hormone levels. They were primarily looking at estrogen and progesterone.

Wonder what magnesium can do for you? Well, it has hundreds of uses in the body, and - as this study shows, "reduced levels of magnesium are associated with a wide range of chronic diseases.

Does L-Theanine help with sleep? Research suggests it might — and that's not all. Studies indicate it may also support cognitive function and a calmer mood during stressful periods. One placebo-controlled study examined how four weeks of L-Theanine supplementation was associated with improvements across a range of symptoms, including restless nights and difficulty concentrating.

Whilst this study was done on dogs, the research into GABA is prolific for a reason - this neurotransmitter is a powerful calming agent that can help the brain when it becomes dysregulated.

Many of our ladies know that estriol can be amazing on skin on other parts of the body (it's not just for the vulva!), as we have written about in this blog - but, one of the newer areas of research is the effect that topical progesterone has on skin, and particularly women's skin post-menopause. This article was a clinical study on the use of topical progesterone cream of 40 post-menopausal women over a 16 week period.

Sleep disturbances such as insomnia are extremely common, especially in women after menopause. According to data from the National Institutes of Health, sleep disturbance varies from 16% to 42% before menopause, from 39% to 47% during perimenopause, and from 35% to 60% after menopause.

The Study: Effects and side-effects of 2% progesterone cream on the skin of peri- and postmenopausal women: results from a double-blind, vehicle-controlled, randomized study.

We've written before about how estriol can be used to kick wrinkles to the curb, but what about progesterone?

When it comes to workouts as we age, the idea of throwing weights around like Arnie can be a little intimidating... but science suggests that weight lifting is crucial as we age to help things like muscle mass, osteoporosis, and even weight gain, so why exactly does a barbell pack so much punch?

This study examined how mood-related outcomes differed between women using hormone therapies and those who were not during the menopause transition and early postmenopausal period.

Brain fog might be a symptom of menopause, but cognitive decline is also associated with aging in general. We know that exercise is great for heart health, for lung health, for bone density, and mobility, and even gut health... but what about our brains? Read on to learn the science that links brain health and busting a move!

Ok, so the study was done in mice - so we have to take it with a grain of sugar (or aspartame), but it does start to show how these food additives can have other consequences in our bodies aside from the obvious aspects of weight gain. The study, explored in the journal of neuroscience, explained, "The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved aspartame as a sweetener in 1981.

We've heard that food is medicine and medicine is food (thanks Aristotle), and we know that a plant based diet high in unprocessed foods and good fiber is key... and we know all about super foods thanks to Instagram (Kale anyone?), but what does the science say about the sweet science of berries, the delicious superfood we can get behind?

Progesterone plays a wide-ranging role during menopause — and research suggests it may be one of the most well-tolerated hormonal options out there. From sleep quality to cardiovascular wellness, scientists keep finding new reasons to pay attention to this often-overlooked hormone.

This is an in-depth study that not only gives detailed insight into how the gut microbiome works and how it develops, but the interaction between gut health, exercise, and disease. This study is based on the premise that, "An increasing body of evidence suggests that gut microbiota can be modulated by different factors, such as infection, disease, diet, antibiotics, and exercise, and, in turn, these modulations can affect some diseases. Interestingly, exercise can determine changes in the gut microbial composition playing a positive role in energy homeostasis and regulation."

Hyaluronic acid has emerged as a popular ingredient for intimate moisture and comfort — but how does it stack up against other non-hormonal options like vitamin E? This look at a small double-blind, randomized clinical trial gives us a window into what the research is finding.

Spearmint tea is a folk remedy for women in menopause... but we got to wondering why that was... Many folk remedies ARE rooted in science, with things like black cohosh, flax, and soy being beneficial for women's health, particularly menopausal health, across the world.

Green tea, a known producer of L-theanine, has been found to be effective on the brain waves, helping increase relaxation and overall lowering stress levels... but how does the science stand up when this compound is taken out and administered?

This study is very technical, but it details not only the effect of GABA supplementation on the brain, and more specifically on the function of learning behaviors and activity within the brain, but also the effect of responsiveness of GABA receptors in the brain, and how these two things work together to help increase our ability to learn!

A broad look at DHEA research, this paper explores where DHEA experiments started (animals) to the future of DHEA research. DHEA is considered an interesting research molecule, since it has so many different capabilities, functions, and conversions in the human body.

Maybe you've heard of L-Theanine; it's a compound in green tea, and it is often added to the amino acid supplements you might find at the gym (this is because it helps control the effects of caffeine), but there is far more to this humble amino acid than meets the eye. Scientific studies are showing just what L-theanine supplementation can do for your brain — particularly when it comes to alpha brain waves, calm focus, and creative flow...

It sounds complicated, but it can be broken down pretty simply: low-grade inflammation in the brain is associated with gradual changes in cognitive function — a topic researchers are actively exploring as we learn more about how aging affects brain health.

GABA, an ingredient researchers have explored for its connection to relaxation and restful sleep, is one of the reasons women are paying more attention to this amino acid. This post looks at what a recent research review found about GABA's role in the brain — and why the science around calm and sleep continues to draw interest.

Understanding the impact of the menopause transition can be half the battle for a lot of women. Your coworkers and your boss don't get it. Your kids don't get it. Your partner doesn't get it. Heck, even your doctor doesn't get it. Add in temperature swings and mood shifts and, honestly, it's impressive any of us are holding it together. This study is here to help change that.

Estriol is the gentlest of the three estrogens — and that's not a limitation, it's a distinction. Here's what researchers have been exploring about this quietly fascinating hormone.

We often hear from our ladies that 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or, EVOO) is a great lube, and if you ask Greek women, it makes a great skin moisturizer. If you ask any health foodie, it makes a great dietary addition, but what does the science say about this liquid gold? Myth or miracle?

With numerous functions all round the body, DHEA is often touted as the 'anti-aging' hormone, since it is the major precursor hormone that helps create both testosterone and estrogen in our bodies. Studies into DHEA in older adults, as well as women who are post-menopausal, have found that higher DHEA levels are associated with greater immunity, greater muscle mass, lower cortisol (thus stress), and much more! This particular study was a comprehensive review of these other studies - let's take a look!

Done in Germany, this was a comprehensive review of many other studies that looked at various other hormone replacement studies.

A three-month study with 140 women found that "the menopausal experiences decreased and the quality of life increased among the women who used flaxseed." Adding flax to your diet is a simple, real-food step that many women find worth exploring during this stage of life.

Read on to learn more about why and how!

"Excessive stress, which leads to elevation of stress hormones, can also negatively affect reproductive ability, including by accelerating menopause."

Thinking about adding some seaweed to your diet? A small study found that seaweed may be associated with changes in estrogen-related markers in midlife women — which could help shed light on why women in some Asian countries report different menopause experiences. Here's what the research actually says.

Soy gets a bad rap — but a closer look at the research tells a more reassuring story. We dig into a stack of studies on soy and women's health in midlife, from quirky one-off cases to a study following more than 73,000 women, and separate the myths from the science.

Women have frequently been left in the dark — or outright misinformed — about menopause. For many, they're told vague things about "the change," brace for hot flashes and moodiness... and then get blindsided by a whole load of other experiences they had no idea were related. And if they do seek help? They're often told to just deal with it. So what does the science actually say about early menopause — and what are women actually doing about it?

Vitamin E suppositories are often recommended as a natural option for intimate moisture and comfort. But what does the science actually say? We did some digging to find out.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a role in the body's hormone balance. DHEA levels decline as women and men age, and this decrease is associated with various age-related changes. Research is exploring whether DHEA may be associated with cognitive performance — including visual-spatial skills, mental clarity, and everyday focus. Let's take a look at what the science says...

Hormones and the brain — turns out there's a lot going on there. This article points to a comprehensive interview with researcher Dr. Eef Hogervorst on how hormones, thyroid, lifestyle factors, and more all intersect with brain wellness across the menopause journey.

Dairy is a staple in many diets — but how does it interact with your hormones? From estrogen metabolism to inflammation, here's what the research says about dairy and your midlife body.

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals your body relies on — and most of us aren't getting enough of it. Low magnesium has been linked to skeletal, muscular, and nervous system issues, and research suggests it plays a role in everything from athletic performance to how your joints feel day to day.

This was a research review - meaning all the existing research was pooled, compared, and summarized, leading to this conclusion: "the current data on DHEA are promising and may prove that DHEA-based treatment is efficacious for preventing and slowing human OA progression."

This study was a summary of other studies, and it looked at the efficacy of soy foods and their impact on body composition.

Research published in the mental health literature has found that the hormonal shifts of perimenopause — with estrogen playing a particularly significant role — are closely tied to emotional and psychological changes in many women. Additional factors like vasomotor experiences, past life events, and socioeconomic context can all contribute to how a woman feels during this transition.

Dandelions have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support well-being during hormonal change. Scientists have hypothesized that dandelion extract may interact with estrogen receptors, and early research suggests this folk remedy could be backed by some interesting science.

Any woman in menopause can tell you that she rarely gets the care she needs or deserves, with many practitioners having limited knowledge on menopause at all.

How does movement connect to mental health during menopause? According to this study, pretty significantly. Menopause isn't just hard on our bodies, it can be tough on our minds too. Between physiological changes, nasty side effects, and roller coaster emotions, we can feel out of shape and out of our minds.

This article explores what research tells us about estrogen's role in intimate and pelvic wellness — and why the changes that come with the menopause transition can affect how that whole region feels and functions.

This study explored how hysterectomy and oophorectomy affected androgen levels before and after menopause. They found that, "the postmenopausal ovary remains a critical source of androgen throughout the lifespan of older women."

This study contrasted and compared the research on these two differing components. Phytoestrogens refers to those estrogens found in foodstuffs (soy, yams) as naturally occurring compounds. Though mistakenly believed to be harmful, these phytoestrogens have been found in fact, to be both protective and anti-estrogenic. However, in recent years, chemicals in foods and beauty products have allowed xenoestrogens into our systems, as discussed in the blog above. So, what does the science say?

This is a literature review that explored numerous different clinical studies and investigations of women with joint and muscle pain menopause onwards. This means that the information is drawn from a variety of different kinds of research and gives us a good birds eye view of the issue; in this case, why do women seem to have so much more musculoskeletal pain in menopause and beyond?

This article is a literature review, that looks at the major bodily systems affected by menopause - and specifically perimenopause - as conducted by STRAW.

This article explores why progesterone declines so significantly in perimenopause, what happens when progesterone and estrogen fall out of balance, and what a landmark case-study paper found — including the perspective of an endocrinologist who lived through it herself.

The conclusion of this scientific study really summed it up well: "In conclusion, the majority of women had negative attitudes toward menopause and perceived social support during menopause was at low levels. The perceived social support and attitude towards menopause correlated. Informational programs need to be focused on developing positive attitudes in both women and men to help couples and strengthening women’s social support and preparation during menopause."

The breakdown of this study was, "We sought to understand women’s practices, their motivations for use and the role vaginal practices play in women’s health, sexuality and sense of wellbeing." Pretty interesting? Researchers looked at sexual practices around the world, from differing cultures, to conduct this study.

Androgens — the hormones often called "male sex hormones" — are present in women too, and their role in women's health is more nuanced than most people realize. During menopause, androgen levels can decline, leading to changes that may not fully respond to estrogen-based approaches alone.

Whilst we are on the topic of stress, what about anxiety? A poll of our ladies found that 52% of them experienced anxiety (this was out of 400 women who responded). This is a statistically significant number. It suggests that women experience anxiety fairly regularly - but is this more common during menopause, or simply for women in general?

The supplements talked about in this article are naturally occurring vitamins and minerals that can help ensure the body stays healthy; things like diet and exercise (and water intake and sleep) play a huge role in our overall health and wellbeing throughout menopause. Specifically, this research looked at Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and calcium all of which are beneficial for things like bone health, metabolic health, and heart health.

Ever wonder about the science of sleep... post menopause? We all know that sleep never seemed to be quite so difficult before, but is it the hot flashes, the anxiety, or the restlessness that is keeping us up? And, what the hell do our hormones have to do with all this?

We know that pesticides are bad for us, but it can be hard to pin down exactly what they are doing in our bodies. Beyond Pesticides is a research website that looks at all the different ways that pesticides interact with our bodies. Pesticides are one of the most potent xeno-estrogenic compounds, as estrogenic strength and environmental half-life exceed those of other xeno-estrogenic compounds, so it makes sense they disrupt normal, natural estrogen levels.

This study aimed to explore the link between the menopause and peri-menopause transition and the effect on perceived sexuality as well as sexual activity of women aged between 45-55. They randomly selected the women, and the study was focused on sexual activity and perception over the prior 12 months

This study is a literature review, aimed at exploring the link between menopause and cardiometabolic health in women. The authors note that, post menopause, women are at greater risk of heart disease and associated conditions, however, there do seem to be causal factors and mitigating responses that can help heart health management.

Boric acid suppositories are small capsules inserted into the vaginal canal that may support vaginal pH balance and general comfort. Many women include them in their intimate hygiene routines — but what does the science actually say?

One of the common questions we get asked is what may support libido changes in menopause — and it can be tricky to answer, because desire is more complicated than just a little blue pill. Research on DHEA and its relationship to intimate wellness in midlife women is growing and worth knowing about.

The article sheds light on a significant gap in neuroscience research: the lack of focus on women's health factors despite the availability of advanced brain imaging technologies like MRI. While women make up half of participants in neuroimaging studies, less than 0.5% of these studies specifically consider health factors unique to women. This oversight is particularly notable given that conditions like Alzheimer's and depression are known to affect women at disproportionate rates.

Estrogen, often regarded as the primary female sex hormone, is a complex group of hormones responsible for various physiological functions in both men and women. Within the estrogen family, there are three main types: estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3), each with distinct roles and impacts on the body.

This article discusses the prevalence and trends in hysterectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of the uterus, particularly for benign conditions. Despite a recent decrease in hysterectomy rates, it remains a common procedure, with over 600,000 women undergoing it annually in North America. The article highlights a shift in surgical techniques, with nerve-sparing approaches like subtotal hysterectomy gaining popularity. The choice of less invasive interventions, such as laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy, is also increasing.

GABA is the main inhibitory neurochemical in the human brain. Evidence from both animal and human studies indicates that individual variations in GABA are associated with behavioral performance - what does this mean? In a nutshell, more GABA = better performance...

Curious what complementary wellness practices women explore during the menopause transition? This research review looks at mind-body approaches, natural products, and whole-system traditions — and what the evidence has to say.

How estrogen affects bone density and overall bone health; what the research says on HRT and osteoporosis.

Acne scars can be a long lasting and painful reminder of our teenage (and even later!) years that many of us suffer with. These scars can occur from picking, skin damage, and long-term cystic acne. After the acne has gone, we can be left trying to treat the scars with things like peels, dermabrasion, lasers, and other invasive methodologies that can be painful, expensive, and show little improvement.

This was a large study, with 747 middle-aged women obtained from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) from 1996 to 2008. The ethnic groups included: Afro-American, Chinese, Japanese, Caucasian, and Hispanic. Perimenopause age and duration, menopause age, and hormonal indicators of menopause were examined across five ethnicities. This allowed researchers to examine, not only how menopause differed between ethnic groups, but also whether menopause was changing worldwide - as well as presenting hypotheses as to why that might be

Did you know, "Urinary incontinence (UI) is an important social problem that affects more than 50% of postmenopausal women"? And yet, you don't exactly see ads filled with solutions, or women talking about it, or anything except discreet aisles filled with thick pantyliners and adult diapers. This study looked at urinary incontinence and what to do about it.

Think you're alone? Think again! The research shows many women share the same menopause experience - which means together we can find solutions!

Hormonal changes during menopause affect many systems in the body — including bone health. Researchers have been studying how estriol, a naturally occurring estrogen, may relate to bone cell activity in postmenopausal women. Here's a look at what one study found, and why the science is worth knowing.

D-Mannose is a naturally occurring sugar that has been making waves in the wellness world — and there's some genuinely interesting research behind it. If you've ever dealt with urinary discomfort, this one's worth understanding. Check out the latest science...

Ok, so we know fast food isn't great, and we know we should cut down on the chips... But, is it really that bad? According to a new scientific study - yes, it really is that bad and comes with a lot of side effects that can have long term negative health consequences. This paper is interesting as it draws our attention not just to the type of food (i.e., candy versus fruit), but how something like vegetable soup can differ in its make up via added preservatives and chemical contact from packaging.

Do you know what is in your laxatives? Many laxatives contain the same chemicals that are found in brake fluid and anti-freeze, and internet reporting has suggested that there may be issues with pediatric usage of these drugs and neurological issues in children... so what does the science say?

There has long been concerns over the use of anti-anxiety medications (as well as many other mental health medications) and the severity of their side effects - namely, do the side effects end up making things worse for the person taking them? In this case, benzodiazepines were studies - via self report, which has limitations, to see whether this was the case.

A review published in Menopause journal examined the body of research on estriol, exploring what scientists have been learning about this naturally occurring estrogen and its potential roles in women's wellness. We love sharing the science — here's what the research community has been exploring.

Lowered libido is common post menopause, but why? Aside from things like pain, or changes to the vagina, there can be a significant number of underlying hormone mechanisms that affect the female sex drive. This study explores why that is and what we can do about it!

How do our hormones affect our brain? A lot, is the short answer. So what does that mean during menopause — when hormone levels shift significantly? This study looks at how cognitive changes are associated with hormonal shifts and hormone therapy use.

Aging gracefully can mean different things to different people. For us, it means enjoying life and enjoying who you are - and for many women, this means taking care of their skin! We often feel younger than we look (which is a good thing!), but it turns out, there may be a great resource sitting in our cupboards already... This was an interesting study done to see whether topical estrogens have an effect on skin aging, particularly wrinkles that occur due to collagen loss (collagen formation is in part influenced by estrogen levels).

Cardiovascular wellness is something many women think more about during the menopause transition — and for good reason. Here's what current research says about hormones, cholesterol, and lifestyle during this life stage.

There are three kinds of lies; lies, damned lies, and statistics! Ok, statistics aren't that bad, and they can be pretty helpful when it comes to understanding menopause and what things are common, or less common, and what medical issues (i.e., bone loss) we need to be aware of!

If sex has become less comfortable, you're far from alone — and dilators may be worth knowing about. Here's what the research says about how they work and whether they can make a difference over time

Also known as Vulvovaginal Atrophy (VVA) or Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), many women experience a range of changes in vaginal and vulvar comfort — including dryness, itching, and discomfort. The most challenging part is that women often don't know much about these changes or what to look out for. This large study helps highlight how little support and awareness women in this space actually receive.

What makes estriol even more interesting? Research has explored how vaginal probiotics work alongside estriol to support vaginal flora — and studies have examined whether the combination may support comfort and wellness in postmenopausal women.

The North American Menopause Society released an updated position statement on hormone therapy in 2022 — and it's worth understanding what they actually said.

This scientific review explores how menopause and changing estrogen levels are associated with shifts in the vaginal microbiome, including changes in lactobacillus levels.

You know you're supposed to do your kegels — but why exactly? Well, research on pelvic floor exercises shows they can make a real difference for women as they age. Here's what one study found.