Cognitive Function in Peri- and Postmenopausal Women: Implications for Considering Iron Supplementation

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Neuroscience
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Menopause involves hormonal shifts impacting women's health, including cognitive function.
• Cognitive decline during menopause is common, but causes and effective treatments remain unclear.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not recommended for menopausal cognitive complaints due to insufficient evidence and contraindications for some women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore iron supplementation as a potential alternative for managing menopausal symptoms, including cognitive decline.
• To investigate the link between iron deficiency, heavy menstrual bleeding, and perimenopausal symptoms.
• To highlight the need for evidence-based research on iron supplementation for perimenopausal women.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing evidence on menopause, cognitive function, and iron status.
• Hypothesizing the role of iron deficiency in perimenopausal cognitive decline.
• Identifying the need for well-designed clinical studies.

Main Results:

• Iron deficiency and anemia are risks for women during perimenopause due to heavy blood loss.
• Iron supplementation has shown promise in improving cognitive performance in premenopausal women with iron deficiency.
• Potential for iron to alleviate symptoms like lethargy and depressed affect alongside cognitive decline.

Conclusions:

• Iron supplementation may offer a viable alternative to HRT for managing perimenopausal symptoms, including cognitive issues.
• Further research is crucial to develop effective iron supplementation protocols for perimenopausal women.
• Addressing iron deficiency could improve overall well-being during the menopause transition.