Menopause Myths and Misconceptions

According to some estimates, 10 to 20 percent of women going through perimenopause experience mood-related symptoms like mood swings. Some studies have found a slight association between the perimenopause transition period and an increased risk of depression, but there is no direct evidence that depression during midlife is the result of declining hormone levels. Indeed, postmenopausal women actually have the lowest rates of depression, compared to any other age group. While menopause transition is a major life event that can affect stress, sleep quality and other risk factors for depression, it is unlikely that depression results from biological changes from menopause alone. Regardless of what the cause may be, if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, seek medical attention.