![Sample our Behavioral Sciences journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/110801/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Behavioral-Sciences.jpg"})
Abstract
Background
Perimenopause is associated with increased depression symptoms in women. Symptoms at this time are thought to be qualitatively different from those in childbearing years, and to present with milder symptoms of depression, increased agitation, and fatigue. This research aimed to determine whether depressive symptoms during perimenopause can be distinguished from those in the childbearing years.
Methods
Seventy‐four depressed women who were either perimenopausal (n = 40) or in their childbearing years (n = 34) were recruited (M = 40.11; SD = 11 years). Participants completed a series of questionnaires relating to depression (Beck Depression Inventory‐II), various mood states (Profile of Mood States), and changes in sleep patterns.
Results
Univariate relationships between symptoms and perimenopausal status were assessed. All significant variables (anger‐hostility, depression, tension‐anxiety, fatigue‐inertia, and changes in sleep quality) were analysed via logistic regression. Mood profile at these two different life stages were differentiated based on lower levels of depression symptoms and tension‐anxiety, and increased levels of anger‐hostility, fatigue‐inertia, and sleep disturbance in the perimenopausal women as compared with the childbearing group.
Conclusions
This research supports the unique presentation of perimenopausal depression. The identification of a unique symptomatic profile provides targets for intervention and allows for different treatment options.
Abstract
Key words:
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Jayashri Kulkarni, Stuart Lee, and Zoe Gibbs declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Jayashri Kulkarni, Stuart Lee, and Zoe Gibbs declare that they have no conflict of interest.
Acknowledgement
The authors would like to acknowledge Margaret Hay, from Monash University, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, for her contribution to the design of this study.
Notes
Funding: None.
Conflict of interest: Jayashri Kulkarni, Stuart Lee, and Zoe Gibbs declare that they have no conflict of interest.
