The menopause It represents a period of bodily transformation in women that occurs throughout the world and, although the majority suffer these changes during the late 40s or early 50s, each case is unique.

The process does not occur abruptly, but rather the body progressively decreases the production of female sex hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone. The manifestations affect physical health, emotional state and, as a recent analysis shows, They generate relevant modifications in the brain and cognitive performance.

According to a recent review presented by The Menopause Society, The hormonal changes that characterize menopause also affect brain functions that go beyond the reproductive cycle. This study provides information on how the volume of the gray matter in key areas of the brain, such as the frontal cortex, temporal cortex and hippocampus, all critical for memory and decision making.

According to research led by A. Rodríguez and A. Pereirafrom the BRAVE laboratory of the University of Health Sciences of Ponce (Puerto Rico), It is possible to measure the alterations in the brain that occur during menopause. The team compiled recent results and evidence that observed, through MRI, a reduction in brain volume that is linked to symptoms such as frequent forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating and a persistent feeling of mental slowness.

Furthermore, scientific literature warns that these brain alterations are not limited only to a reduction in volume. The same study indicates that the images reveal lesions in the white matter—known as hyperintensities—which could originate from changes in cerebral blood flow.

Based on the available evidence, these injuries are associated with an increased risk of neurological symptoms, such as cognitive impairment, balance problems, mood fluctuations, and a greater likelihood of developing dementia or suffering from strokes.

Analysis of the scientific literature confirmed the early onset of symptoms in women who experience menopause before the age of 45. According to the authors, the presence of brain lesions is more marked in this group, which indicates a higher vulnerability to cognitive and neuronal health problems.

However, the records themselves offer encouraging signs. According to the review, There is evidence that gray matter volume can recover after menopause. This possible restoration reflects the plastic capacity of the brain, a process that is also observed in other important moments of female life, such as pregnancy.

In the transition stage known as perimenopausespecific changes appear in the sex hormone receptors. The study indicates that during this stage there is an increase in estrogen receptors in the brain, a phenomenon that may represent an attempt to address the progressive decrease in hormonal levels. This phenomenon is associated with a drop in memory performance.

Likewise, scientists highlight that not only hormonal levels are modified, but also the way in which the brain manages them.

Besides, Menopause affects various aspects of physical health. According to the scientific review, women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disorders, loss of sexual desire, headaches or joint pain, changes in body weight and mood disturbances. Many of these symptoms are directly or indirectly linked to the brain modifications described.

Until now, most studies have focused on physical manifestations, while effects on the brain and cognition have received limited scientific interest. However, the work presented by The Menopause Society highlights the urgency of addressing these aspects due to their impact on the comprehensive well-being of women.

According to the authors, findings provide biological and objective bases to give legitimacy to cognitive and emotional symptoms referred by patients.

Access to evidence-based information allows health professionals to recognize the variety of changes associated with menopause and support women in a comprehensive way. Medical recognition of these symptoms contributes to improve patient care and understanding, which, in turn, helps improve quality of life.

Finally, The dissemination of this knowledge serves not only doctors and professionals, but also women themselves. Understanding that these symptoms are part of a natural transition can reduce stigma and facilitate preventative and physical and mental self-care behaviors.

In that sense, providing concrete data helps to validate personal experiences and promote access to treatments or professional support when necessary.

These results are important in the current context, since women going through menopause face real and specific challenges to their brain health. Advances in research help to recognize, understand and treat each of these dimensions appropriately.