Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, is marked by hormonal changes that can impact women both physically and emotionally. While many recognize hot flashes and irregular periods as typical symptoms, the prevalence of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression is often overlooked. This study aims to shed light on the occurrence of both somatic (physical) symptoms and psychiatric challenges faced by women during this phase.

What Did the Study Explore?
Researchers examined 100 women between the ages of 45 and 55 to identify:

1. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and dysthymia (persistent mild depression).
2. The occurrence of physical symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, and joint pain.
3. Sociocultural and personal factors influencing these issues, including marital status, education, and social support.

Key Findings

• Psychiatric Morbidity: Nearly 41% of the women experienced psychiatric conditions, including:
  • Depression (17%)
  • Anxiety (17%)
  • Dysthymia (7%)
• Somatic Symptoms: About 68% reported symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and body aches.

Factors Contributing to Mental and Physical Symptoms

• Sociocultural Influences: Women with lower education levels, limited income, or a lack of social support were more likely to experience psychiatric issues.
• Family Dynamics: Marital stress, domestic abuse, and substance use by a spouse were significant contributors to mental health struggles.
• Personal History: Early menarche, late menopause, and larger family sizes were linked to higher levels of physical and mental health issues.

The Role of Social Support
Strong social support, whether from family or friends, appeared to buffer some of the stress associated with perimenopause. Women who reported better support systems had fewer and less severe symptoms, underscoring the importance of nurturing relationships during this life stage.

Recommendations for Better Health
The study highlights the need for proactive measures to support perimenopausal women:

1. Education and Awareness: Women, their families, and healthcare providers should be educated about the emotional and physical challenges of perimenopause.
2. Early Interventions: Screening for mental health issues should be integrated into routine health checks for women in this age group.
3. Psychological Support: Counseling or therapy can help women navigate emotional challenges and marital stress.
4. Community and Family Involvement: Engaging families, especially spouses, in awareness programs can improve understanding and support.

Conclusion
Perimenopause is not just a physical transition; it’s an emotional one too. Addressing both mental and physical health concerns holistically can significantly improve the quality of life for women navigating this phase. Open communication, social support, and timely medical intervention are key to ensuring a smoother transition into menopause.

Source:

Aziz, S., Kelkar, P., Chaudhury, S., & Saldanha, D. (2024). Prevalence of psychiatric morbidity and somatic symptoms in perimenopausal women. Medical Journal of Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, 17(3), 580–586.