Early menopause linked to more anxiety and depression symptoms

A study of more than 2,600 women found that those who had entered menopause earlier than usual reported more anxiety and depression symptoms than women of the same age who had not. Yle reported the findings from research conducted at the University of Oulu.

The researchers said the results underline the importance of considering mental health, particularly when menopause begins at a younger age. Recognising psychological symptoms may help women receive timely care and support, doctoral researcher Tiia Saarinen said in a university statement.

The study included women aged 46, divided into groups according to whether menopause had begun. The classification was based on hormone measurements, menstrual cycle information and medication purchases. More than 300 of the participants had entered menopause.

Just over 30 per cent of the women in the menopause group had significant depression symptoms, compared with 25 per cent in the comparison group. Significant anxiety symptoms were reported by about 23 per cent of the menopause group and 16 per cent of the other women.

The association remained after the researchers accounted for factors including smoking, alcohol use, body mass index and education. Women whose menopause had begun were 44 per cent more likely to have significant anxiety symptoms than those whose menopause had not begun.

Menopause brings changes to the menstrual cycle and hormone function, and can involve symptoms such as hot flushes and sleep problems. The final menstrual period, known as menopause, occurs later in this process. In Finland, women reach it at an average age of about 51.

The study follows earlier research based on the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, which linked early menopause with poorer self-reported work ability and later work disability.