What happens to the brain during menopause? Explains science

According to the Researcher at the University of CaliforniaEmily Jacobs, About 70% of women experience neurological symptoms during the menopausal process. Although this moment is known for what happens to the ovaries, scientist Lisa Moscone believes that it should also be considered a state of neural transmission, in addition to the reproductive transition.

Now, I realize that symptoms like hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, and insomnia are all also related to the brain. Therefore, Mosconi began studying the topic.

What is known about the brain during menopause

According to Mosconi, the few existing studies on this topic focus on the changes that occur in the brain after women actually go through them menopause. But the scientist wanted to know what happens during this process, when the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone decreases.

In general, at this stage the neurons that are part of the ovulation process are no longer necessary. In this way, the brain undergoes changes that cause some discomfort.

According to one Stady By comparing brain images, Mosconi found a difference in brain activity in women at each stage of menopause – before, during and after.

The research revealed changes in brain structure, the way different parts of the brain communicate, and energy metabolism. For example, there is a decrease in the volume of gray matter in the precuneus, a part of the brain involved in memory.

At the same time, the organ tries to compensate, so there is an increase in blood flow and energy production. However, these changes are usually temporary.

Menopause and Alzheimer's disease

One of the symptoms that women report during menopause is “brain fog,” which causes some cognitive failure, such as forgetfulness. Although hormonal changes may explain why, recent research has also found a connection between hot flashes caused by this moment.

According to the study, the more hot flashes women have, the worse their memory. However, when hot flashes are treated, memory performance improves.

Moreover, after analyzing the blood of participants in A StadyScientists have found biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease. Although this does not definitively prove a link, it is a preliminary clue to understanding why post-menopausal women account for 70% of people with the disease.

Next steps

Now, Moscone intends to continue searching for more information about the relationship between the brain and menopause. “Often these are fleeting changes, but that doesn't negate the fact that they can be scary. We can arm women with this information,” Jacobs concludes.

Women are demanding to know more about what to expect, and health care professionals want better guidance for their patients. This reflects a discouraging rule: Research suggests that 60% to 86% of women seek medical care for their symptoms. menopauseHowever, many people feel misunderstood and disappointed after their appointments.

A greater understanding of the relationship between the brain and menopause can help people navigate this period in a way that promotes brain health and well-being. Here's what we know so far – and why there's still more work to do.