Macular, choroidal and disc associations across women's reproductive life stages: a scoping review from menarche to post-menopause.

ABSTRACT: Oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate cyclically in women throughout their adult lives. Although these hormones cross the blood-retinal barrier and bind to intraocular receptors, their effects remain unclear. We present the first review to date on associations between posterior pole structures-specifically the macula, choroid, and optic disc-and both the menstrual cycle and post-menopausal period, utilising multimodal imaging techniques in healthy adult non-pregnant women. We excluded studies on contraception and hormonal replacement therapy, focusing solely on physiological associations. Despite the comprehensive scope of our review, limited data and inconsistent reporting among studies prevented the establishment of meaningful trends. Across menstrual cycle phases, choroidal thickness (CH

SUBMITTER: Ribeiro Reis AP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11794579 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature