Learn how menopause-relates hormone changes affect brain function
Menopause changes your body in all kinds of ways. The most obvious is of course that your periods stop. But remember, the very same hormones that control your periods and your fertility also control lots of other functions in the body, including many functions in your brain.
Hormonal Changes and Brain Health
During and after menopause, the following hormone changes are common:
Low Estrogen and Progesterone: Estrogen and progesterone are both important neurotransmitters, especially in the areas of the brain devoted to memory. Estrogen is also important for helping to dilate blood vessels in the brain to support better blood flow and better brain function—especially clear thinking and concentration. Since estrogen and progesterone decline at menopause, it is no surprise that women experience “brain fog” or issues with memory and concentration at this time.
Low Thyroid: Not all menopausal women are low on thyroid, but many are. Deficiencies in this hormone can contribute to memory and concentration problems, as well as to issues with mood. Specifically, low thyroid can cause depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Low Testosterone: Although testosterone is a male hormone, women do need it for a variety of functions, including keeping their spirits up and their mood good.
Low Serotonin: Our bodies need estrogen to make serotonin, so it is extremely common for menopausal women with low estrogen to also have low serotonin. Serotonin is not only an important mood-regulating neurotransmitter; it also regulates your sleep cycle. Sleep deprivation can further erode your mood as well as your memory and concentration.
Menopause Treatment Can Help
Menopause treatment can help you feel like yourself again by correcting the hormonal imbalances that are triggering these negative changes in brain function. At Renew Youth™, we offer quality hormone replacement therapy as the cornerstone of our menopause treatment program. This therapy includes measures to address all your vital hormones–including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid, and cortisol—with personalized treatments based on your specific body chemistry and symptoms. To learn more about Renew Youth™, please contact us today.