Depression and perimenopause: a review

Abstract

Depressive symptoms and disorders are highly prevalent throughout life, particularly in the middle-aged. From adolescence, women have a 1.5-3 times higher risk than men of suffering different depressive disorders. Traditionally, it has been assumed that transition to menopause, or perimenopause, is a period of higher depressive vulnerability, although there is some degree of controversy. This period seems to be associated with the appearance of both depressive symptoms and de novo depressive disorders, particularly if a background of depression exists. With regard to its etiopathogeny, genetic, hormonal, psychological and sociocultural factors have been suggested, but there are no solid data that support any of these explanations. Treatment basically depends on the severity of the disorder and includes antidepressants and/or psychotherapy. Maintained treatment with hormone replacement therapy (estrogens) is under discussion.