Menopause isn't just about hormones. "Women's brains are really changing" – scientists discover the causes of brain fog.

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Brain fog during menopause—manifested by poor concentration, forgetfulness, and mental fatigue—may be the result of real changes in the structure of women's brains. Recent research by scientists at Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico shows that during perimenopause, gray matter decreases in areas responsible for memory and thinking, while damage occurs in white matter due to impaired blood flow. Importantly, the scientists emphasize that the brain has the ability to regenerate—over time, it can rebuild some of the lost structures.

Brain fog during menopause – new findings from scientists

As reported by the Polish Press Agency (PAP), the so-called brain fog that occurs during menopause—manifested by poor concentration, forgetfulness, and mental fatigue—may have a much deeper origin than previously thought. Recent research conducted by scientists from Ponce Health Sciences University in Puerto Rico has shown that during menopause, women's brains undergo significant structural changes that impact cognitive function.

Researchers have found that perimenopausal women experience a decrease in gray matter in regions responsible for memory and thinking, and damage to the white matter due to impaired blood flow may occur. These changes may explain why many women experience difficulty concentrating and processing information during this period.

Menopause, as demonstrated by analysis presented at the annual conference of The Menopause Society in Orlando , is always accompanied by measurable changes in brain structure . MRI imaging studies have shown a reduction in gray matter volume in key areas for memory and decision-making—the frontal cortex, temporal cortex, and hippocampus. These areas are responsible for verbal and visuospatial memory.

Additionally, scientists have observed a phenomenon called white matter hyperintensity —bright dots visible on MRI. The researchers explain that these changes are a sign of tissue damage and are more common in women with early menopause or severe hot flashes. They may be associated with reduced blood flow to the brain and a greater risk of neurological disorders, from cognitive decline, balance and mood problems, to an increased risk of stroke or dementia.

One of the most interesting findings of the Puerto Rico team is the observation that the density of estrogen receptors increases in certain brain regions during menopause. This may be a compensatory mechanism—an attempt to "make up" for the decline in sex hormone levels. However, as the researchers note, "in some cases, the increase in receptor number was also associated with poorer memory performance."

While these changes may sound alarming, there's also good news. Some scientific publications suggest that gray matter volume partially recovers after menopause . This demonstrates the brain's neuroplasticity , or its ability to adapt and regenerate even after significant hormonal changes.

According to co-author Angelica Rodriguez , "all the evidence underscores the need to further explore the link between the brain and menopause, particularly in the context of the links to the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms women experience during this stage of life."

This means that scientists are gaining a better understanding of how hormonal changes affect brain structures and may in the future develop more effective treatments to alleviate menopausal symptoms.

While brain fog is a bothersome and distressing symptom for many women, new discoveries offer hope that over time the brain can regenerate itself —returning to balance and even improving its performance after periods of major hormonal changes.

Source: PAP/MH