Acupuncture for perimenopausal depression: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Mental Health
• Integrative Medicine

Background:

• Perimenopausal depression significantly impacts women's quality of life and daily functioning.
• Acupuncture is recognized as a potential therapeutic intervention for managing perimenopausal depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for treating depression in women during perimenopause.
• To provide evidence-based insights into acupuncture's role in managing perimenopausal mood disorders.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases (e.g., CENTRAL, PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI) until October 2018.
• Randomized controlled trials evaluating electroacupuncture and manual acupuncture for perimenopausal depression were included.
• Meta-analysis using Revman 5.3.5 software was performed following Cochrane Handbook guidelines.

Main Results:

• The review will comprehensively evaluate acupuncture's efficacy using outcomes such as effective rate and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) scores.
• Safety assessment will include analysis of estrogen levels and the incidence of adverse events associated with acupuncture treatment.
• The effectiveness of both electroacupuncture and manual acupuncture will be analyzed.

Conclusions:

• This systematic review aims to determine if acupuncture can effectively improve symptoms of perimenopausal depression.
• Findings will inform clinical practice regarding acupuncture as a treatment option for women experiencing perimenopausal mood disturbances.