Oestrogen protection hypothesis of schizophrenia
| Evidence | Outcomes | Findings |
|---|---|---|
| Epidemiological studies | Incidence of schizophrenia in women and men | Peak of incidence earlier in men than women [3, 4] Second peak of incidence in women at menopause [19] |
| Clinical studies | Hormonal status and psychopathological symptoms | Low levels of oestrogens associated with more severe psychotic symptoms [5, 19, 20] |
| Hormonal status and cognitive symptoms | Menstrual cycle irregularity associated with cognitive impairment [24] | |
| Clinical trials | Administration of exogenous oestrogens | Positive effects of oestrogens on clinical symptoms [5] |