Perimenopause Associated With 40% Higher Depression Risk Study Finds | TheHealthSite.com – TheHealthSite

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Perimenopause related with a 40% increased risk of depression in women, according to recent research findings.

A study from University College London(UCL) paints a worrying picture about perimenopause, the period before menopause, which can increase the chance of depression by 40 per cent in women. The conclusion was made after analysing seven studies that involved 9,141 women from Australia, the USA, China, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.

The study discovered, that women going through perimenopause increase depression risk by 40 per cent or may get diagnosed with depression compared to those women who haven’t reached menopause yet. The research also concluded that those women who are going through perimenopause must get extra checkups and help as they are more likely to get depressed. However, the risk of depression reduces significantly once the menopause is over compared to the one who are still in periods of menopause.

Roopa Desai, senior author from UCL’s Psychology and Language Sciences said, ” The research found that women during the perimenopause phase have a higher chance of facing depression in comparison to periods before or after this stage”.

She also added, it’s crucial to understand the struggle of a woman when she is going through perimenopause and is likely to feel depressed, so it is more important to offer them a check if they are okay mentally or if she needs any help. This leads to a big difference in supporting their mental health during tough times.

What are the early symptoms of perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a stage before menopause when a woman’s body slows down the production of estrogen showing the end of her reproductive years. The symptoms can vary among women but some common signs include:

• Irregular periods- In this case the menstrual cycle becomes irregular.
• Mood swings- Variation in mood that may include anxiety, depression and irritability.

• Vaginal Dryness- There is less lubrication in the vaginal area which may cause problems in intercourse.

• Sleep Disturbance– Sleep difficulties or you may stay asleep for longer time due to night sweats or hormonal changes.

• Fatigue- Low in energy or tired even after eating and sleeping well.

• Weight gain- Some women may experience weight gain, particularly in the abdomen area.

• Memory Issues- Difficulty in concentrating and remembering things.

Perimenopause Diagnosis

When you are going through perimenopause, it can be hard or tricky to identify the symptoms. However, your doctor can identify looking at your symptoms, age, and medical history, after doing a physical examination. Your doctor might suggest a blood test to check your hormone levels which helps them to understand what’s going on inside your body.

Perimenopause Treatment

The treatment for perimenopause is not necessary unless its symptoms trouble you, and some of the treatments of this transitional problem are:

• Hormone Therapy- This treatment uses estrogen or estrogen with progestins to balance hormone levels.
• Antidepressants- This treatment is primarily done to stabilise your mood.

Treatment may include some lifestyle changes, such as:

• Eating healthy like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Try to get 1000-1200 mg of calcium diet or supplements.
• Regular Exercise
• Tracking your triggers and their possible reasons such as alcohol, and caffeine.

Risk Associated With Menopause, What Else You Must Know?

Apart from given side effects there are many more risks associated with menopause such as heart disease, bone loss, and fracture and can also bring other health concerns. Change in cholesterol level, weight gain, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, it’s important to know about these risks and symptoms to give insights to your healthcare provider for treatment. Taking proactive steps and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper medical care can manage challenges effectively.

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