Cognitive Challenges and Memory Issues Are More Frequent During Perimenopause Than We Thought

We’ve all experienced those moments of forgetfulness. Picture this: you’re at the doctor’s office with a sick child who kept you up all night. The nurse asks for their birthday, and your mind races. Which child is unwell? Right, the middle one. Is it November? No, December. December 8th? You stammer, hoping you actually brought the right one to the appointment.

Or how about that time you were wandering the grocery store, struggling to remember your shopping list? You know there’s something else you needed, just out of reach in your memory. It will probably come to you as soon as you pull into your driveway.

Then there’s that unexpected half-day at school. You’ve been focused on your regular schedule all day and completely forget to pick up your kids. You receive that dreaded call asking where you are, and your kids give you those “My mom forgot me” looks as you finally arrive to find them waiting alone.

We’ve all had these “mom-brain” episodes, but could they be linked to something more? Experts believe they might be. Women in their 40s and 50s experiencing regular “brain fog” may be dealing with the effects of perimenopause and menopause (as if hot flashes, mood swings, and weight changes weren’t enough!).

Dr. Lisa Harris, a gynecologist and founder of the Wellness Center for Women, notes that many patients express concerns about their cognitive function. “If people are discussing it, it’s a widespread issue,” she says. The Department of Health and Human Services reports that up to two-thirds of women in perimenopause report cognitive difficulties.

Moreover, a study led by Dr. Emily Reeve, a psychologist at the University of Washington, indicates that 1 in 10 women may experience “clinically significant” cognitive changes related to menopause that can persist into postmenopause.

So it might not be just “mom-brain” but rather “aging brain” or “perimenopausal brain” that’s contributing to those lapses in memory and focus. It’s certainly a fun challenge!

“I find it harder to make decisions, and I often overlook details,” explains 48-year-old Sarah Thompson. “It feels like my brain is operating in slow motion.” Yes, that sensation is all too familiar.

Fun nicknames like “Menofog,” “Mentalpause,” and “Perifog” have emerged to describe this cognitive haze of perimenopause. And while adding cute names to this frustrating phenomenon helps, it doesn’t solve the problem.

According to the Washington Post, various factors can affect cognitive function in perimenopausal women, including income, trauma history, education level, mental health, substance abuse, and infections. These factors can make women more susceptible to lasting cognitive changes during menopause.

What causes these memory lapses? Hormonal fluctuations? Exhaustion from sleepless nights? The emotional turbulence of perimenopause? The medical community is still trying to pinpoint the exact causes, leaving women without specific remedies for cognitive issues.

However, treating other symptoms—like mental health concerns or exploring hormone therapy—may alleviate some of the cognitive challenges. As Dr. Mark Johnson, a behavioral endocrinologist, explains, many women experience depression during this stage of life, often for the first time. Lower estrogen levels can contribute to depression, affecting attention and memory retention.

By addressing depressive symptoms, women may notice improvements in mental clarity too. Stress is another significant factor impacting brain function. The 40s and 50s can be incredibly stressful for many, as they navigate raising teenagers, caring for aging parents, and maintaining careers.

Managing stress could involve exercise, meditation, sleep aids, therapy, or other methods that work for you. Taking steps to reduce stress may also help alleviate cognitive fog.

Harvard Medical School suggests strategies for strengthening brain function, such as using mnemonic devices, visual cues, or repeating information to improve memory retention. Just like muscles, our brains benefit from regular exercise and stimulation.

While occasional forgetfulness is normal, if cognitive issues start affecting daily life—like forgetting to turn off the stove or experiencing sudden memory changes—it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

As you navigate this challenging phase of womanhood, remember that if you’re experiencing frequent cognitive difficulties, you’re not alone. Many women in their 40s and 50s are in the same boat. While it may be easy to laugh it off, don’t hesitate to seek help if your “menobrain” is significantly affecting your life. Treating the other symptoms of perimenopause and menopause could lead to clearer thinking.

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In summary, cognitive challenges and memory issues during perimenopause are more common than many realize. Understanding these experiences can help women navigate this phase of life with greater awareness and seek appropriate support.

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