Symptom
Brain fog
Trouble concentrating, losing your train of thought, or forgetting words and names you know well.
- Listed by the NHS as
- A common symptom of menopause and perimenopause1
- Often linked with
- Poor sleep and low mood, which make it worse2
- Worth ruling out
- Other causes, such as thyroid problems3
What it can feel like
- Walking into a room and forgetting why
- Losing a word mid-sentence
- Finding it hard to focus on reading or work
What guidance says can help
Sleep
Poor sleep can make concentration worse, so sleep problems are worth mentioning alongside it.2
Activity and connection
The NHS lists regular exercise, relaxing activities and talking to others going through the same thing among things that can help.2
A doctor’s view
A doctor can check for other causes and discuss whether treatment for menopause symptoms might help.3
When to see someone
- Memory problems that are getting steadily worse, or that people close to you are worried about.
- Urgent:Low mood, or thoughts of harming yourself. Get help the same day.
For symptoms that can’t wait, see Get help now.
Questions to ask
- Could my concentration problems be linked to the menopause?
- Should we check anything else, like my thyroid?
- Would treating my sleep or other symptoms help?
Often comes with
Full guide · 8 minBrain fog, mood and memory in midlife: what the evidence actually showsSources
- NHS. Menopause and perimenopause symptoms.
- NHS. Things you can do to help with menopause symptoms.
- NICE guideline NG23. Menopause: identification and management.
General information, not medical advice. It can’t tell you what is causing your symptoms.