The episodes of forgotdifficulty remembering names or finding precise words become common in many women during pregnancy. perimenopause and the menopause. Although these symptoms usually cause concern and suspicion of serious illnesses such as dementia, specialists at the Cleveland Clinic agree that, in most cases, they are linked to hormonal changes normal of this stage.

The drop in levels of estrogen is the main factor behind these memory lapses. The doctor Pelin Baturan expert in women’s health, explained that hormonal decrease It affects brain functioning, which can cause temporary forgetfulness or difficulties in recalling names and words.

Unlike dementia, these memory problems are usually transient or stabilize over time and do not alter the ability to carry out daily activities or cause disorientation in familiar spaces.

For her part, the neurologist Caroline Justfrom the Cleveland Clinic, pointed out that, in cases of dementia, those who suffer from it do not usually notice their memory failures, but rather it is their family members who notice the changes. Among the first signs of the disease are getting lost in familiar places or failing to remember daily tasks.

He Alzheimer’s It mainly affects people over 65 years of age, while symptoms linked to menopause usually occur between 45 and 55 years oldor even earlier during perimenopause. According to Just, forgetfulness associated with menopause tends to improve or remain stable, while in dementia the deterioration is progressive.

Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidant vegetables, and maintaining an exercise routine are habits that can protect cognitive health in menopause, according to the Cleveland Clinic team.

The doctor Sobia Khan It is advisable to always consult a doctor before starting supplements such as methylated vitamin B12, omega 3 or magnesium, as they are not safe in all cases.

Reducing the number of simultaneous tasks is also key. Khan highlighted that the multitask overloads the brain, especially at a stage when mental energy is usually limited. Just added that constantly alternating activities requires an extra effort to adapt to the brain and enhances the feeling of brain fog.

To stimulate memory, it is recommended to participate in activities such as logic games, creative hobbies, reading, brisk walks, language learning either meditation.

Batur stressed that these practices are not only useful, but can also be motivating and pleasurable.

The use of hormone therapy is still object of debate in the medical community. Cleveland Clinic warns that there is no consensus on its effect on memory or its relationship with dementia prevention. Batur pointed out that Potential risks, if they exist, are low and difficult to pinpoint..

For most, the benefits outweigh any possible adverse effects, especially if therapy is started within the first ten years after the onset of menopause.

Recognizing when to see a doctor is essential. Although memory loss can be part of the natural process of menopause, there are warning signs that require professional attention.

Just listed among these signs: forgetting daily tasks, difficulty following instructions, problems maintaining a conversation or using the wrong words without realizing it, as well as changes in judgment, personality or mood. If these symptoms appear and the situation worsens, it is important to seek medical advice.