Menopause is an important milestone in a woman's reproductive journey. While menstruation marks the start of the menstrual cycle, menopause is the end of that cycle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), natural menopause is said to have occurred after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. Worldwide, menopause generally occurs in women aged 45–55 years, which can lead to various bodily changes.
Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, changes in mood, and weight gain. In addition, brain fog is a common symptom of menopause and perimenopause, reportedly affecting over 60% of women, along with other cognitive issues.
Also Read: Premature Menopause: Understanding Health Risks And Symptoms To Watch Out For
What Is Menopause Brain?![]()
Dr Vivek Barun, Consultant - Neurology and Epilepsy, Artemis Hospitals, refers to the menopause brain as the cognitive changes that take place during menopause. These include:
- Memory problems: difficulty remembering names, dates, or recent events.
- Brain fog: Feeling confused or having trouble concentrating.
- Difficulty multitasking: Struggling to perform multiple tasks at once.
- Slowed thinking: Taking longer to process information.
According to a study published in the World Journal of Psychiatry, hormonal changes during menopause, particularly the decrease in oestrogen levels, might contribute to cognitive issues. Researchers noted that between 44% and 62% of women experience subjective cognitive decline during menopause, which includes memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and forgetfulness.
In addition to hormonal changes, other factors that cause menopause-related brain changes include:
- Stress
- Sleep disturbances
- Underlying health conditions, such as thyroid disorders
- Vitamin deficiencies
Early Signs Of Menopause Brain![]()
Women are more likely to experience cognitive decline than men, especially as they approach menopause, according to research. This is likely due to hormonal changes, particularly the decrease in oestrogen levels during this time. Some of the early signs include:
- Increased forgetfulness
- Difficulty finding words
- Mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
- Brain fog
How To Manage Menopause Brain![]()
While menopause is a natural process and it isn’t a disease that you need a cure for, there are ways you can manage its symptoms. These include:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Regular physical activity
- Practising relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing
- Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
- Engaging in activities that stimulate your mind, such as reading, learning a new language, or playing games
You can also resort to supplements and therapies for cognitive function, as guided by health professionals. Some options include:
- Hormone therapy
- Taking omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate; natural sources include meat, poultry, eggs, and leafy green vegetables.
- Increase antioxidant intake, naturally found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
It's crucial to note that individual experiences may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor for more personalised advice.
Conclusion
Menopause is a natural process that leads to various changes in the body. A woman going through menopause is likely to experience several symptoms, including changes associated with the brain. While menopause isn’t a disease and there is no particular cure for the condition, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and hormone therapy.