Researchers are studying whether using estradiol patches continuously or in a cyclic pattern affects brain health, memory, stress, and decision-making differently after menopause. Findings from this study may help improve how hormone therapy is used and guide future menopause research.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 38-60
• Women in early postmenopause (10–48 months since final menstrual period)
• Had a normal mammogram, pap smear, and pelvic exam within the past 3 years
• Right-handed

• Not currently using hormone-based medications (e.g., estrogen, progesterone, hormone replacement therapy, etc.)

Overall Duration

• Participation lasts about 4 months and includes a combination of virtual visits, in-person visits, and brief at-home activities.

Study Visits

• A virtual screening visit to determine eligibility
• An in-person Baseline Visit at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus: questionnaires, thinking and decision-making tasks, a brain MRI scan, an EEG recording, and blood/urine/saliva/hair sample collection
• About 3 months wearing an estradiol patch (continuously or in a cyclic pattern), with brief at-home symptom diaries, urine collections, and 8 mobile lab visits for blood draws at home or another convenient location
• A second in-person Follow-Up Visit near the end of the patch period, similar to the Baseline Visit
• Some participants take progesterone for 2 weeks at the end of the study, followed by a remote Final Study Visit by video conference

Other Details

• Snacks are provided during in-person visits
• Participation is limited to those able to travel within about 75 miles of the CU Anschutz Medical Campus

Participants may receive up to $794 for completing this research study.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.