Does Menopause Affect Your Brain Health?

Women of a certain age know this about menopause: when your body’s estrogen production shuts down, the change can trigger hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disruptions and other physical and emotional symptoms. But can those hormonal changes also have a lasting effect on your brain?

According to experts at Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care, while menopause is a natural phase of life, its impact on brain health is a growing area of research and concern. Many women experience cognitive symptoms such as forgetfulness and “brain fog” during menopause, which raises questions about whether hormonal changes can indeed affect long-term cognitive function.  

Understanding the Connection Between Menopause and Brain Health

The relationship between menopause and brain health is complex, according to G. Peter Gliebus, M.D., a neurologist and director of cognitive and behavioral neurology at Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health.

During menopause, he explains, there is a significant drop in estrogen, a hormone that is vital for brain protection, energy production and glucose uptake. This decline can alter brain structure and function – particularly in regions responsible for memory and learning.  

“Some evidence supports an increased risk of cognitive decline in women due to hormonal changes during menopause,” says Dr. Gliebus. “The significant drop in estrogen, a hormone that is important for brain protection, energy production and glucose uptake, can alter brain structure and function.”

G. Peter Gliebus, M.D., a neurologist and director of cognitive and behavioral neurology at Marcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health

Research findings are mixed, however, Dr. Gliebus points out. Some studies support estrogen’s protective effects against an increased risk of cognitive decline due to menopause; others show conflicting results regarding hormone replacement therapy’s impact on dementia risk.

“Alzheimer’s disease, for instance, is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle and environmental exposures, making menopause just one of many potential contributors,” notes Dr. Gliebus.

Can Treating Menopause Symptoms Protect Brain Health? 

Treating your menopause symptoms may help preserve your cognitive health, Dr. Gliebus says. “Several studies suggest that addressing menopause symptoms may contribute to the preservation of women’s brain health as they grow older. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) eases symptoms by providing additional estrogen and could offer cognitive advantages, particularly when initiated early in the menopause transition.”

A healthy lifestyle can also help offset some of the effects of menopause, says Emma Ducca, Ph.D., neuropsychologist at Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute. “Beyond medical treatments, even small lifestyle changes can have a significant impact,” Dr. Ducca says. “Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet and promoting mental stimulation can also support brain health during and after menopause.”

Proactive Steps for Older Women to Protect Brain Health

For older women, taking proactive measures to safeguard brain health is crucial, according to Dr. Gliebus. “Engaging in regular exercise, especially aerobic types, enhances blood circulation to the brain and bolsters cognitive resilience,” he says.  

He also recommends a nutrient-dense diet, like the Mediterranean and MIND diets, which incorporate healthy fats, lean proteins and antioxidants to help minimize inflammation and promote brain function.  

“Furthermore, managing stress, ensuring good quality sleep, maintaining social connections and stimulating the brain through learning and problem-solving activities can contribute to lowering the risk of cognitive decline,” Dr. Gliebus adds.  

When Severe Menopause Symptoms Merit Extra Attention  

While severe menopause symptoms such as pronounced brain fog, hot flashes and sleep difficulties may be linked to changes in brain metabolism, there is no definitive evidence that they predict future dementia, Dr. Gliebus cautions.

“Some research indicates that women experiencing more severe menopause symptoms may exhibit greater shifts in brain metabolism but these symptoms could reflect temporary hormonal changes instead of a long-term decline in cognitive function,” Dr. Gliebus notes. He advises women facing more intense menopause symptoms to take extra steps to protect their brain health.

“It may be helpful to discuss HRT with a healthcare professional if it is initiated early in the menopause process, although the potential risks and benefits should be thoroughly assessed,” he suggests. “Moreover, tackling sleep issues, managing stress and enhancing your metabolic health, such as blood sugar and cholesterol control, can offer additional defense against cognitive decline.”

A Timely Reminder During Brain Health Awareness Week

Whether you are experiencing menopause or simply aiming to support long-term brain health, Brain Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to focus on practical ways to maintain cognitive well-being at every age, says Dr. Ducca at Marcus Neuroscience Institute.

Emma Ducca, Ph.D., a neuropsychologist at Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience Institute

“By staying informed and proactive, women can take meaningful steps to support their brain health during and after this transition,” Dr. Ducca says. “And as research continues, the hope is to further clarify the relationship between menopause and cognitive health, and to empower women to thrive in every stage of their lives.”  

What You Can Do: Brain Health Awareness Week (March 10-16) is a timely reminder of the importance of protecting cognitive well-being – especially for women navigating menopause. For more insights and guidance on brain health and menopause, consult with your healthcare provider or a specialist at Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care.