Understanding how hormonal changes during perimenopause affect trauma responses in Black women

Neuroendocrine Mechanisms Underlying Perimenopausal Risk for Trauma-Related Hyperarousal in Black Women

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11044144

This study is looking at how hormonal changes during the perimenopause can affect how Black women from urban, low-income backgrounds respond to trauma and fear, helping us understand their unique experiences better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of hormonal changes during the perimenopausal phase on trauma-related hyperarousal in Black women, particularly those from urban, low socioeconomic backgrounds. It aims to understand how fluctuations in the hormone estradiol (E2) influence responses to trauma and fear. The study will utilize clinical interviews, psychophysiological assessments, neuroimaging, and neuroendocrinological methods to gather comprehensive data on these interactions. By focusing on this specific population, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in knowledge regarding the unique vulnerabilities faced by perimenopausal Black women exposed to trauma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black women who are in the perimenopausal stage and have experienced trauma.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black women or who are not in the perimenopausal stage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for trauma-related mental health issues in perimenopausal Black women.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on trauma and hormonal influences, this specific focus on perimenopausal Black women is relatively novel and underexplored.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.