Review, 2010
Is the menopause transition a risky time for depression to develop?
Yes, some women are at higher risk of depression during the transition to menopause, and women with a history of severe PMS may be especially vulnerable.
What they did
Review of evidence about depression during the menopausal transition, examining biological and environmental risk factors and treatment options.
What they found
Multiple risk factors contribute to depression in menopausal women: hot flushes, sleep disturbances, history of severe PMS, postpartum blues, stressful life events, depression history, lower socioeconomic status, and certain medications. Ovarian hormones affect brain chemicals that regulate mood. Estrogen patches and antidepressants effectively treat depression and hot flushes in midlife women.
What it means for you
Women with a history of severe PMS may be at higher risk for depression during menopause and might benefit from monitoring and early treatment. The review notes more targeted treatment options are still needed.
About the study
- Original title
- Challenges and opportunities to manage depression during the menopausal transition and beyond
- Authors
- Soares CN, Frey BN
- Journal
- The Psychiatric clinics of North America
- Year
- 2010
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- Transdermal estradiol and antidepressants
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2010.01.007
Topics
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