Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy and Exercise on Brain and Muscle Function in Post-Menopausal Women Aged 50 to 59

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how female sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone affect brain and muscle function in post-menopausal women. This study aims to compare brain activity and muscle strength during periods of low and high hormone levels. The research focuses on understanding the role these hormones play in nerve pathways and muscle force, recruiting women who plan to start hormone replacement therapy HRT. Participants will begin combined hormone replacement therapy and be tested before starting, after two months, and after five months of treatment. Between the two- and five-month tests, they are offered a 12-week voluntary exercise program involving strength and endurance training four times a week. The study tracks how well participants follow this exercise plan and examines changes linked to hormone levels and physical activity. During the study, women will visit the laboratory for early morning sessions after fasting, where they will undergo various tests including strength performance, brain function, body composition, metabolism rate, and vascular health. Blood tests will confirm hormone levels. Researchers will measure changes in brain inhibition, muscle activation, resting metabolic rate, and vascular function from baseline to months two and five. The total study period includes baseline assessment, hormone therapy with or without exercise, and follow-up testing to monitor outcomes and safety.

Menopause Effects on Cortico-reticular Functioning