French research into the impact of a premature menopause (less than 40 years old) on cognitive function in later life indicates that premature surgical menopause and premature ovarian failure are associated with long-term negative effects on cognitive function.
These effects are not offset by menopausal hormone therapy (HT) completely.
The potential long-term effects on cognitive function should be included in the risk / benefit considerations for surgical menopause (ovariectomy) in younger women.
No significant link was discovered between premature menopause and the risk of dementia in later life.