Perimenopausal women report highest odds of anxiety in large study synthesis

Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 observational studies involving 24,523 women to evaluate how anxiety reporting varies across different stages of midlife, News-Medical reported. The study published in the journal Scientific Reports analyzed evidence from cross-sectional data to assess mental health during female reproductive transitions. [1]

The research team found that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women had higher overall odds of reporting anxiety symptoms compared with premenopausal women, according to News-Medical. A pooled meta-analysis of 15 of the included studies demonstrated that the highest odds of anxiety occurred specifically during perimenopause. [1]

Natural menopause marks the end of the female human reproductive phase as menstrual periods permanently cease, typically occurring between 45 and 55 years of age. Natural transition involves three recognized stages comprising perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, driven by declining levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. [2]

The study authors noted key methodological limitations in the underlying research, News-Medical reported. Because the evidence relies on cross-sectional data, the findings establish correlation rather than causation, meaning the study cannot prove that the menopausal transition directly causes anxiety. [1]