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Got the Menopause Brain Fog Blues?

Sep 16, 2021
Got the Menopause Brain Fog Blues?
Have you experienced a moment during perimenopause that reminded you of “pregnancy brain” or “stress fatigue”? Rest assured, this occurrence is not a sign you are pregnant but rather a normal sign of perimenopause.

Have you experienced a moment during perimenopause that reminded you of “pregnancy brain” or “stress fatigue”? Rest assured, this occurrence is not a sign you are pregnant but rather a normal sign of perimenopause. As your body adjusts to this new stage in your life, it’s normal to experience brain fog in your memory and attention.

What is the cause of my brain fog?

Common symptoms of perimenopause like sleep issues and mood swings may be the culprit of brain fog. Some women experience a negative mood as part of their perimenopause symptoms, while other women experience a negative mood because of their lack of sleep. As your hormones fluctuate during perimenopause, your moods will follow. Each hormone is responsible for different processes in the body, including cognition.

How common is this?

Many women experience brain fog during perimenopause. Healthline reports that over 60 percent of middle-aged women report difficulty concentrating and other issues with cognition. Especially in the early part of perimenopause when the changes are newer, you may experience more brain fog.

How do I get help?

Because brain fog is most likely a secondary symptom of perimenopause, you might be able to get help by treating the immediate symptoms.

  • Get more sleep. We understand this may be difficult for perimenopausal women, but determining a regular schedule and using natural sleep inhibitors can help.
  • Focus on your fuel. Your food plays a large part in the intensity of your perimenopause symptoms. Learn what foods you should be intentionally including in your diet to improve some symptoms.
  • Beat the heat. Hot flashes are no one’s friend. Cooling products or natural remedies can help you beat your hot flashes.
  • Your birth control may be the answer. Birth control has been shown to not only prevent pregnancy but also improve perimenopause symptoms.
  • Give a natural way a try.Not all perimenopause treatments are hormone based. Lifestyle changes and other medications can provide some relief.

Another source of support is to talk with a healthcare provider! Southdale ObGyn’s Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Functional Medicine/Holistic Health Practitioner, Krista Margolis, joins real women once a month in a virtual, live menopause discussion. Get your questions answered in September’s session focused on