# Perimenopause Brain Fog is Real

**By Paula Gallagher** · 2024-06-24

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As I approached my late 40s, I started noticing subtle changes in my body and mind. Hot flashes, irregular periods, and mood swings were becoming familiar companions, but nothing prepared me for the brain fog. If you're going through a similar experience, know that you're not alone. In fact, one [study](https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Citation/2013/12000/Cognition_and_the_menopausal_transition___is.3.aspx) shows that as many as 60% of middle-aged women report difficulty concentrating and other issues with cognition.

## What is Perimenopause Brain Fog?

Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, brings a variety of symptoms, one of which is brain fog. Brain fog manifests as forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental cloudiness. Tasks that once seemed effortless can become challenging, and this can be incredibly frustrating. Another [study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23615642/) found that women in early stages of menopause experienced more noticeable issues with cognition, specifically in the first year following their last menstrual period.

### The Daily Struggle

For many women brain fog has become a part of their daily life. Simple things like remembering where I put my keys or recalling the name of a colleague can become embarrassing. Brain fog can present itself differently in each woman. Where multi-tasking may have once been your superpower, it now feels like an insurmountable challenge. Some women find themselves staring blankly at a computer screen, unable to focus on the task at hand. Some say it feels like my brain has hit a pause button without permission.

### Understanding the Causes

Understanding the causes of brain fog can be somewhat comforting. During perimenopause, hormone levels, particularly estrogen and testosterone, fluctuate dramatically. These hormones are crucial for brain function, including memory and concentration. When their levels dip, it can lead to the cognitive difficulties we often refer to as brain fog.

**Tags:** brain fog, menopause, perimenopause

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> Source: [Village Green Apothecary](https://myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/peri-menopause-brain-fog-is-real)