[Estrogens and the psyche]

Animal experiments have revealed much about location, mode and mechanism of action of oestrogens on the brain. It appears very likely from these experiments that oestrogens affect psychic functions. However, data proving such actions in the human are fragmentary and incomplete. It is generally assumed that physiological concentrations of oestrogens influence sexual and non-sexual behaviour, as well as mental performance in man, but the requisite scientific data are still insufficient in many cases to allow definite conclusions to be reached. Similarly, statements that moderately increased concentrations of oestrogens affect the psyche continue to be a matter of debate. In contrast it is established that both excess and deficiency of oestrogens can influence psychic functions in the human. This has been clearly demonstrated in extensive studies, particularly with regard to the psychic changes in the peri- and postmenopause, whereas little can be said about a cause-effect relationship between oestrogen deficiency and declining mental function with advancing age. The therapeutic value of oestrogen replacement in psychic disturbances associated with oestrogen deficiency states such as hypogonadism, after castration and in the climacteric is well documented by many studies. All other assumed psychic indications in the process of ageing are much less clearly defined and at present of questionable medical importance.