FROM MEMORY TO HEART HEALTH: WHAT EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK.

September 4, 2025

This week’s stories remind us that women’s health and well-being are never one-size-fits-all. From new research suggesting hormone therapy may fine-tune different types of memory after menopause, to a major clinical trial that’s challenging long-standing heart treatment guidelines for women, the science is moving fast—and sometimes rewriting the rulebook. Beyond the medical journals, we’re also spotlighting how connection itself heals, why India’s lawmakers are finally prioritizing women’s health, and how friendships across generations can open up whole new worlds. Consider this your Thursday dose of insight, science, and community—because thriving after 50 is both an art and a practice.

1. Can hormone therapy affect memory after menopause?

A recent study in Neurology suggests that hormone therapy may boost memory after menopause. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,200 postmenopausal women and found that estradiol’s effects on cognition depend on how it’s delivered. Women using transdermal estradiol (patches/gels) performed better on episodic memory tasks, while those taking oral estradiol showed improvements in prospective memory. Neither method improved executive function. Experts note that oral estradiol is metabolized differently, which may blunt its impact on memory areas of the brain. It’s a nuanced reminder that menopause brain fog might have a gradual fix, and not all hormone options are created equal. NEUROLOGY JOURNALS

2. Standard post-heart attack treatment may not help—and could harm women

A big, surprising study (REBOOT trial) across Spain and Italy found that continuing beta blockers after a heart attack might not benefit most patients. Even more troubling, women with mild heart damage had higher risk of death or another heart incident when on beta blockers—something not seen in men. This could shake up decades-old treatment norms. NYPOST

3. First-ever intra-party parliamentarian forum on women’s health in India

India’s lawmakers launched their first cross‑party forum dedicated to women’s health, with hopes to make subjects like cervical cancer prevention and HPV vaccination bona fide political priorities. Eight legislators from seven parties are collaborating to push concrete policy backed by data, public awareness, and consensus—not party politics.. NEW INDIAN EXPRESS

4. Connection itself is medicine

From Penelope

When women vent to other women, it’s an emotional release that’s also a biologically grounded form of healing. Research shows that emotional expression in trusted female relationships triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and supports emotional regulation. At the same time, cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, decreases. This process activates the vagus nerve, shows the heart rate and helps the nervous system return to balance. When we share our stories, struggles, and triumphs with one other, we’re reinforcing a sense of belonging that rewires the nervous system toward safety. @goodneuroscience

This also highlights the importance of creating spaces where women feel heard without judgment. Whether through friendships, mentorship, or intergenerational conversations, these exchanges build resilience, strengthen community, and counter isolation that some may be feeling.

Talking it out doesn’t just heal in the moment; it creates ripples of emotional well-being that benefit families, workplaces, and communities WOMEN’S BRAIN HEALTH

5. Intergenerational Friendships Can Enrich Your Life: Expert Tips to Broaden Your Social Circle

From Penelope

As introspective author Anais Nin once said, “Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.” We all know that solid friendships are valuable – they instil in us a sense of belonging, improve our well-being, and provide us with new insights and perspectives. And experts reveal that unions adhering to the adage “age is just a number” may be especially beneficial.  

As the term suggests, intergenerational friendships are strong social ties between people at different stages in life – like a baby boomer and a millennial, or a Gen X and a Gen Z.