I started the menopause about 18 months ago, and now I keep getting very forgetful. Is this a symptom of the menopause?

Loss of memory and concentration is very common in the menopause, and most women will experience this at some point.

I do believe that, as women today, we have so much to think about all the time that, like an over-worked computer, our memory banks sometimes just 'crash'.

I know that it can be very embarrasing especially when this happens in front of other people but trying to relax can often get your thoughts back

For me it felt like someone had just pulled the plug on my brain and it was empty, but I learned to joke that I was having a 'black hole moment' and this seemed to help reduce the anxiety.

Falling hormones at this time are known to trigger the nervous system which can result in affecting the memory and concentration. You could try the herb Ginkgo Biloba which is known to improve memory and concentration.

Gently balancing oestrogen levels can often be of benefit so you could add in Menopause Support tablets if your periods are tailing off or have stopped and you are not on any hormonal contraceptives. This also contains magnesium and vervain which are lovely for anxiety and stress. For something 'on the go' try Concentration Essence; when you need a little more focus just put a few drops straight onto the tongue.

However, it is important to see your doctor about this as well just to put your mind at rest; the more you worry, the worse it can be!