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Menopause and Memory Loss- The Connection Between Them

By on December 17, 2021

Menopause and Memory Loss

Memory loss or cognitive decline is not only limited to neurodegenerative diseases, but also a normal process of healthy ageing. Women particularly undergo a decline in their memory during different stages of menopause. Memory loss in menopause is a common phenomenon. Let’s read on to find the connection and relation between the two.

Estrogen and Menopause

As women age, the reproductive age also declines. The ovaries and other reproductive functions also reduce gradually. The ovaries start producing less egg and eventually completely stop. The body in response produces less hormone estrogen as it is no longer needed for reproduction. This process and memory loss doesn’t happen immediately. During perimenopause changes, there is lot of fluctuations in the estrogen levels. Hence, women tend to experience many symptoms while they transition to menopause.

Some of the main symptoms include night sweats, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, depression, mood changes, weight gain, and of course memory issues as well.

Connection between Estrogen and Memory

The connection between menopause and memory loss is directly related to estrogen. Research suggest estrogen helps neurotransmitters sends signals to parts of the brain which is involved in information processing and memory.

Connection between Estrogen and Memory

Several research also suggests that estrogen is responsible for the survival and growth of neurons which sends electrical impulses. These impulses are messages which are crucial to make the nervous system and brain function properly.

What can you do?

Memory loss in menopause cannot be avoided and one must find ways to deal with it till the situation improves. Experts suggest that if handled well, these memory issues improve and settle down once the transition period to menopause is over. Listed below are some simple tips to keep your memory functioning decently during this transition.

 Take good rest

Taking good rest and sleeping well will help manage cognitive issues like memory loss. Ensure you sleep at least 8 hours a day and stay peaceful before and after sleep. You can also follow some simple relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation that helps improve concentration, balance, and memory.

Eat the correct food

Food that is bad for your heart can also be bad for the brain. Limiting trans fat and saturated fat foods like baked items, and fried foods will help maintain good cognitive ability. Try adapting to a healthy balanced diet and include healthy food options like fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy, protein rich foods, and probiotics.

 Exercise

Exercise is not only good physically, but also plays a beneficial role to mental health. Exercise helps stimulate the parts of the brain which is important for memory. It helps improve the hippocampus functioning, an area of the brain which is responsible for different types of memory. Apart from physical exercises, trying out a few mental exercises like puzzles, sudoku, crosswords, and other simple mental games can also improve memory and concentration.

 Exercise

Exercise

Conclusion

Although memory loss in perimenopause is inevitable, it does improve after complete transition to menopause is over. If you are experiencing memory loss or other serious symptoms, you can consult your doctor for further advise on how to manage the same. Once menopause is attained, you will slowly start to feel better, and your memory issues will also improve gradually.

Yaamini Radhakrishnan
Yaamini Radhakrishnan:I am a clinic research professional, graduate in biotechnology and post graduate in biochemistry. Have also pursued freelance writing since the past 5 years I am married and have a daughter. I am a native and reside at Bangalore.
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