Hormones and Multiple Sclerosis

Sex hormones, such as estrogens and testosterone, affect each individual's journey living with multiple sclerosis. While both genders face equal MS risk before puberty and after menopause, women experience up to three times higher risk during their reproductive years. Pregnancy generally brings less relapses, potentially attributed to high estriol levels. However, navigating treatment decisions well while trying to conceive and after delivery requires finesse and expertise. Equip yourself with the latest women's health info regarding MS, covering topics from birth control and fertility treatments to menopause and osteoporosis.

Testosterone has important anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits in multiple sclerosis.  Nevertheless, men are at higher risk for disability progression then women. Declining testosterone levels over time (called andropause) and Y chromosome genes may tilt the scales towards disability. Listen to current testosterone research including potential remyelination benefits.

Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews:

Maria Houtchens MD, founding director of the Women’s Health Program at the Brigham MS Center and Associate Professor of Harvard Medical School in Boston, USA

Jorge Correale MD, Head of Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Diseases at the Dr. Raúl Carrea Institute of Neurological Research in Buenos Aires, Argentina