Over the years of developing products and listening to women's experiences, one thing has become increasingly clear: many women blame themselves for mood swings, anxiety, or brain fog that may actually be influenced by hormonal changes.
Despite the significant impact hormones can have on mental well-being, women's brain health has historically been underrepresented in clinical research.
That's why Genial Day is supporting and funding the HEAL-Women study (Hormonal Changes and Women's Mental Health). The goal is to better understand how hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle and during perimenopause and menopause affect brain function, emotional well-being, and cognitive performance.
To learn more about this important research, we spoke with the study's lead researcher, neuroscientist Professor Ramunė Grikšienė.
The Science of the Female Brain: A Conversation with Prof. Ramunė Grikšienė
You've spent more than 20 years studying the brain. What is your research focused on?
I lead a research group at the Life Sciences Center of Vilnius University, where we study how sex hormones—including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—interact with brain activity.
Our research examines how the brain functions at rest, how it processes emotional information, and how cognitive performance changes across different hormonal stages, including the menstrual cycle, hormonal contraceptive use, and perimenopause.
What makes the HEAL-Women study different?
This is a long-term international research project running through 2029 in collaboration with partners including Erasmus University in the Netherlands.
Rather than focusing only on symptoms, we are investigating how hormonal changes influence brain excitation and inhibition. Our goal is to better understand why some women experience few symptoms while others develop conditions such as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) or significant anxiety during perimenopause.
Why is this research important?
Research suggests that certain mental health conditions—including depression, anxiety, and panic attacks—may become more common or more severe during periods of significant hormonal change, such as adolescence, the premenstrual phase, the postpartum period, and perimenopause.
The HEAL-Women study focuses on two particularly important groups.
1. PMDD and Menstrual Mental Health
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual symptoms that can significantly affect daily functioning.
PMDD may sometimes be misdiagnosed as depression or bipolar disorder. Research also suggests that women with PMDD may have an increased risk of postpartum depression and suicidal thoughts during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
2. Perimenopause and Women's Working Lives
Perimenopause involves far more than hot flashes. Many women experience cognitive changes, difficulties concentrating, anxiety, and reduced confidence that may affect both quality of life and work performance.
Understanding these neurological changes may help healthcare professionals and workplaces better support women during this stage of life.
How does the study work?
Each research group includes approximately 100 participants who undergo laboratory-based assessments of brain activity.
The study then evaluates several interventions to understand how they influence brain function and quality of life, including:
- Psychoeducation focused on nutrition, sleep, and stress management.
- Hormone therapy where clinically appropriate.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
What has previous research shown about hormonal contraception?
Previous research conducted by the team suggests that hormonal changes associated with contraception may influence emotional processing.
The researchers have also observed findings suggesting that hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) may have effects beyond the uterus, potentially influencing behavior and brain activity. Further research is needed to better understand these effects and how they may vary between individuals.
How could this research improve women's lives?
Knowledge can be a powerful tool.
Understanding that changes in mood, confidence, or anxiety may have measurable biological and neurological components can help reduce self-blame and encourage women to seek appropriate support, whether through lifestyle changes, psychological therapies, or medical treatment when indicated.
Why Genial Day Supports the HEAL-Women Study
Supporting HEAL-Women is a natural extension of Genial Day's mission to improve women's health through education, innovation, and evidence-based information.
Every day, women search for answers about their energy, mood, and overall well-being. By supporting this research, Genial Day hopes to contribute to a future where:
- PMDD is recognized and accurately diagnosed in primary healthcare.
- Workplaces better understand and support neurological changes associated with perimenopause.
- The long-standing research gap in women's brain health continues to narrow through high-quality scientific evidence.
The Bottom Line
Women's health extends beyond physical symptoms. Hormonal changes can influence brain function, emotions, cognition, and overall quality of life.
By supporting research like the HEAL-Women study, we move closer to a future where women's experiences are better understood, supported by science, and met with effective, evidence-based care.
