[Schizophrenia after forty and its relation with estrogens].

There has been a lot of interest in the many aspects of women's mental health especially after Kraepelin's description of gender differences in 1896 and the implication of gonad hormones in explaining these differences. Studies on the effects of hormonal changes in mental health have mainly been focused on the various phases of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and postpartum period; however, there is little research regarding menopause. During this period women are at risk of developing a new schizophrenic illness the so-called 'second peak'. Research has shown that estrogen acts as a protective factor due to its anti-dopaminergic properties, thus providing an explanation for the risk increase of a new psychotic disorder during menopause. This review article highlights the importance of a clear understanding of this phase of life in patients suffering from or who present a risk of developing schizophrenia.