Over 151 million females worldwide use hormonal contraceptives (HCs), from oral pills, vaginal rings, implants, IUDs, to patches, with combined oral contraceptives being the most common. HCs are also prescribed as treatment for irregular cycles, PMS symptoms, endometriosis, acne, heavy bleeding, or menstrual pain, and may lower the risk for ovarian and uterine cancers.  Mechanisms & neural effects So, how do they work? Hormonal contraceptives contain synthetic forms of hormones, differing in...

Peehu reflects on what it means to search for belonging in neuroscience as a South Asian woman, why representation matters beyond symbolism, and how visibility, mentorship, and institutional change shape not only who becomes a scientist, but whose science is recognised.

'Menopause and the Female Brain' weaves together clinical research, lived experience, and scientific storytelling in a way that makes a typically overlooked area of neuroscience feel both urgent and accessible.