Depression often associated with early menopause: Why some women are at greater risk?

However, not all women experience depression or the same level of depression when presented with the same diagnosis. In this new study, researchers gathered data from nearly 350 women with POI to try to identify the specific variables that contribute to the likelihood of depressive symptoms. Their first observation was the high prevalence of depression among participants. Nearly one-third (29.9%) of the women with POI suffered from depressive symptoms.

The researchers additionally found that a younger age at POI diagnosis, severe menopause symptoms, fertility-related grief, and lack of emotional support were risk factors. No significant difference was found in depressive symptoms between women using estrogen plus progestogen therapy and those not using hormone therapy, underscoring the role of psychosocial factors. Interestingly, a genetic cause for POI was associated with lower depressive symptoms. Another unexpected result was that, even though a higher burden of menopause symptoms was independently associated with depressive symptoms, hot flashes (specifically night sweats) were not.

This is the first known large-scale study to investigate specific variables that are associated with depressive symptoms in women with POI. The researchers believe its results highlight the importance of comprehensive care addressing both physical and psychological aspects of menopause at an early age.

Survey results are published in the article “Depressive symptoms in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI): a cross-sectional observational study.”

“The high prevalence of depressive symptoms in those with POI highlights the importance of routine screening in this vulnerable population. Although hormone therapy is recognized as the standard of care for those with POI for management of some menopause-related symptoms and preventive care, it is not first-line treatment for mood disorders. This was evident in this study in which there was no difference in depressive symptoms between those using hormones and those not using hormone therapy. Addressing behavioral-health concerns with evidence-based interventions should be part of any comprehensive POI care plan,” says Dr. Monica Christmas, associate medical director for The Menopause Society.

Reference:

van Zwol‐Janssens, Charissa MD; Louwers, Yvonne V. MD, PhD; Laven, Joop S.E. MD, PhD; Schipper, Jits MD, PhD; Jiskoot, Geranne PhD. Depressive symptoms in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI): a cross-sectional observational study. Menopause ():10.1097/GME.0000000000002614, July 15, 2025. | DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002614