Psychosomatic and vasomotor symptom changes during transition to menopause

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology and Women's Health
• Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

• Menopause, marked by ovarian function decline and cessation of menstruation, necessitates adaptation to biological, social, and psychological changes.
• Estrogen deficiency during menopausal transition and post-menopause can trigger various symptoms.
• Vasomotor symptoms are prevalent, often co-occurring with mood, sleep, and cognitive disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence on the correlation between psychosomatic and vasomotor symptoms during the menopausal transition.
• To highlight the importance of considering these correlations in clinical practice for managing menopausal symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of current scientific literature.
• Analysis of evidence linking vasomotor symptoms with psychological and social factors during menopause.

Main Results:

• Vasomotor symptoms are significantly correlated with mood disorders, anxiety, neuroticism, sleep disturbances, and cognitive function decline.
• Psychological factors, personality traits, and social context mediate the experience of vasomotor symptoms.
• Perimenopausal women show increased risk for depressive disorders, irrespective of prior history.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers must integrate the understanding of psychosomatic correlations into treatment plans for vasomotor symptoms.
• Effective management of menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor and psychosomatic aspects, can reduce significant social and economic costs.
• Social support and strategic planning are crucial for women navigating menopausal transitions.