Advances in understanding of cognitive symptoms during menopause

The association between cognitive symptoms and menopause is of growing interest. Cross-sectional studies suggest that around two-thirds of women report cognitive concerns, such as memory loss or concentration difficulties, during the menopause transition. Prospective studies of objective neuropsychological performance indicate a decline in verbal learning and memory, although neuropsychological performance generally remains within expected ranges. Multiple factors could contribute to the onset or exacerbation of cognitive symptoms during the menopause transition, including neuroendocrine factors, sleep disturbances, vasomotor symptoms, mood disorders, chronological ageing, and psychosocial stress. Management strategies include validating the woman's experience of cognitive symptoms and managing and providing psychoeducation around the potential causes. Future research should focus on understanding the causes of and potential treatments for both subjective and objective cognitive symptoms that can occur during the menopause transition.