Why 62% of women suffer 'brain fog' during menopause – and what you can do

IF YOU find yourself wandering into a room and forgetting why, misplacing items, or struggling to string together the words you once had at the drop of a hat, you may be one of the many women encountering “brain fog” during the menopause transition.

- SARENE KLOREN

Research suggests that around 62% of periand postmenopausal women report cognitive difficulties – including memory lapses, trouble concentrating and word-finding issues, which are commonly grouped under the term brain fog.

These changes are often driven by falling oestrogen levels, disrupted sleep and mounting stress, but the good news is that there are steps you can take.

What is brain fog, and why does it happen?

Brain fog isn’t an official medical diagnosis, but it is increasingly recognised as a real and common symptom during the menopausal transition.

Women describe it as a feeling of mental sluggishness, forgetfulness, an inability to focus, or simply not being as sharp as they used to be.

The hormonal root

Oestrogen plays a key role in brain health; it supports neurotransmitter systems, shields brain cells and promotes efficient glucose metabolism in the brain.

As oestrogen levels decline during perimenopause and post-menopause, these protective mechanisms weaken, and cognitive changes may follow.

Areas of cognitive change