HRT Increases Risk of Dementia

Even though many women feel that their memory is no longer as sharp as it was before the menopause, apparently that is not the case.
Researchers say the myth of memory loss during menopause is a perception some women have because as they went through menopause, they felt their memory wasn't as sharp as it had been before.
Demantia, which is an age related condition can however affect women as they grow older.
It was believed at one time that hormone replacement therapy could prevent this.
Studies suggesting that hormone replacement therapy might protect against dementia strengthened that belief. However, a large study later found that in older women, hormone replacement therapy not only didn't help protect women from dementia, but could actually increase the risk.

Menopause Not The Only Factor Affecting Sexuality in Middle Aged Women

Sexual activity amongst menopausal women differs greatly between individuals according to new research from the University of Sheffield

It suggests that rather than hormonal changes during the menopause, external factors such as a partner's reduced libido, depth of relationship and caring for a relative had more of an impact on sexual satisfaction during the menopause.

Dr Sharron Hinchcliff says "biological research tends to report the negative impact of declining hormone levels on womens' ability to engage in and enjoy sexual activities, whereas our study found that some women actually saw an increase in sexual desire during this time”

The study concludes that the menopause is not the only factor that affects a woman's sexuality after a certain age and that lifestyle changes in mid-life also affect it.