Identifying mental health profiles among women in peri- and post-menopause using a latent profile analysis approach

This study aimed to explore, characterize, and compare mental health profiles of women in peri- and post-menopause.

A sample of 577 women aged between 45 and 55 in perimenopause (66.6%) and postmenopause (33.4%) participated in an online survey. A latent profile analysis was conducted to estimate the number of profiles, based on anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms and positive mental health. Differences in menopause-related, sociodemographic, and clinical data between profiles were examined.

Four mental health profiles were identified: impaired mental health (IMH; elevated depressive and anxiety symptoms and low positive mental health); threatened mental health (TMH; mild depressive and anxiety symptoms and low positive mental health); moderate mental health (MMH; low depressive and anxiety symptoms, and moderate positive mental health); complete mental health (CMH; low depressive and anxiety symptoms and high positive mental health).Significant differences between profiles were found, with women in the IMH profile reporting the highest levels of menopausal symptoms, insomnia severity, lower sexual functioning, and greater negative impact on work life, romantic relationships, and overall health and well-being. Women in the CMH profile were more likely to be employed and to have higher incomes compared to other profiles. Differences were also observed in the history of psychopathology, current professional care for peri- and post-menopausal symptoms and physical exercise practice.

These findings provide evidence for diverse patterns of mental health during transition to menopause, with important implications for screening and intervention, including the development of tailored psychological interventions.