Hormone therapy (HT) may be effective at managing depressive symptoms associated with menopause, according to a recent study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society.1
Takeaways
- Hormone therapy (HT) may offer effective management of depressive symptoms linked to menopause, based on findings from a study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society.
- A study conducted in Ontario, Canada, involving 170 women at a menopause clinic, revealed that 62% of participants exhibited symptoms indicating depression, which can significantly impact quality of life and relationships.
- While HT's influence on alleviating hot flashes is well-established, there is limited data on its effect on depressive symptoms, prompting this investigation to address the gap in knowledge.
- The study hypothesized that HT's impact on neurotransmitter-receptor pathways, involved in mood regulation post-menopause, could alleviate depressive symptoms, along with addressing physiological menopausal symptoms like hot flashes that may contribute to adverse moods.
- Results indicated significant improvements in depressive symptoms with HT treatment for women undergoing natural menopause, but not for those experiencing iatrogenic menopause, highlighting potential benefits specific to certain menopausal contexts.
Improvement to physiologic menopause symptoms such as hot flushes have been associated with HT use. However, depression is another common symptom of menopause. While women can experience depressive symptoms at any point in life, data has indicated high rates during menopause and a spike after the menopause transition.
A study evaluating 170 women at a menopause clinic in Ontario, Canada, found that 62% had scores indicating depression. These symptoms may have a significant impact on relationships and quality of life even if they do not reach the severity of major depressive disorder.
While the relationship between HT and hot flashes has been established, there is little data on the impact of HT on depressive symptoms. To address this information gap, investigators in Canada conducted a study.
The link between HT and depressive symptoms was hypothesized because HT impacts neurotransmitter-receptor pathways, which are responsible for mood regulation following the menopause transition. These pathways are thought to impact depressive symptoms. Additionally, physiological symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes may lead to adverse moods.
At the initial study visit, participants completed a self-questionnaire about medical history and bothersome symptoms.2 This questionnaire was shortened and readministered at a 3-to-12-month follow-up visit.
Changes on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale were evaluated based on treatment type and HT dose. Demographic variables included age, smoking, and education level.
A potential association between stage of menopause and depression risk was also evaluated, but no link was found between these factors.1 However, depression risk was increased in younger patients and those with a high school level education or less.
HT was associated with significant improvements in depressive symptoms for women who experience natural menopause, but not for women who underwent iatrogenic menopause. The impact did not significantly change when including progestin in the HT regimen. Investigators concluded HT can improve depressive symptoms associated with menopause.
References
- Feeling depressed as a result of menopause? Hormone therapy may help. The Menopause Society. February 22, 2024. Accessed February 23, 2024. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1035275
- Gnanasegar R, Wolfman W, Galan LH, Cullimore A, Shea AK. Does menopause hormone therapy improve symptoms of depression? Findings from a specialized menopause clinic. Menopause. 2024. doi:10.1097/GME.0000000000002325
