Over 80% of women experience menopause symptoms, with vasomotor issues like hot flashes, night sweats, and palpitations being the most common. However, menopause can impact various organ systems in unexpected ways. 

Menopause is often associated with well-known vasomotor symptoms (VMS) like hot flashes and night sweats, but it encompasses a much wider range of issues.

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), commonly known as hot flashes and night sweats, are the most frequent symptoms experienced during the menopause transition.

When we think of menopause symptoms, hot flashes and night sweats often dominate the conversation. Yet, the impact on brain health during this transition is equally crucial.

What effect does the menopause transition have on the brain? Dr. Karen Horst, a reproductive psychiatrist from the Menopause Center at the Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, notes groundbreaking studies exploring the brain's function during perimenopause and menopause.

“Brain fog, forgetfulness, not being able to speak as spontaneously. There are very commonly reported symptoms in perimenopause.” Menopause expert, Dr. Nishath Ali from the Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, talks about why theses cognitive issues may occur and shares advice that may help.

From mood swings to depression, mental health issues can be caused or exasperated by menopause and perimenopause. Dr. Karen Horst from the Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women joined us to explain common struggles women face during this transition and share her expert advice for coping.

“While there was an association between hormone therapy and dementia in these women, it did not demonstrate cause and effect.” Menopause expert Patricia Handler from Northwestern Medicine shares her take on the recent study that’s been getting media attention.