The other day, Tamar Krebs, Founder and Executive Director of Group Homes Australia, walked into her kitchen and completely forgot why she was there. Was it the start of something serious – or just another Tuesday in perimenopause?
“If you’ve ever asked yourself, ‘Is this brain fog or early-onset dementia?’ – welcome to the club. Turns out, hormones and memory have a very complicated relationship,” she says.
Estrogen: your brain’s Wi-Fi signal that keeps dropping out
Estrogen isn’t just about fertility – it’s a cognitive powerhouse. It regulates blood flow to the brain, protects neurons, and keeps memory sharp. But when perimenopause hits, estrogen fluctuates wildly, and brain function takes a hit.
Symptoms that make you question everything
- You forget words mid-sentence and replace them with “thingy”
- You wake up at 3am and can’t fall back asleep
- You start telling a story… and someone reminds you that you already told it twice
Sound familiar? That’s hormone-induced brain fog, and it’s completely normal. But for many women, it triggers a bigger fear: Is this the start of dementia?
Brain fog vs. dementia: the key differences
- Brain Fog – You forget where you put your keys, then find them in the fridge and laugh.
- Dementia – You forget what keys are for and feel a deep sense of confusion.
A study in the Journal of Menopause found that perimenopausal women experience temporary dips in memory and processing speed, but cognitive function stabilises after menopause.
“So yes, your brain feels slow – but no, it’s not permanent,” Tamar reassures.
How to outsmart your own brain during perimenopause
- Move daily – Exercise boosts blood flow to the brain
- Eat brain food – Omega-3s, leafy greens, and yes, dark chocolate!
- Use cognitive ramps – Your phone is your second brain – embrace it!
The bottom line? Brain fog is frustrating, but temporary. With the right habits, you can keep your mind sharp – even when your hormones have other plans.