Depression and Associated Factors Among Perimenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City's aging population sees a rise in perimenopausal women. The hormonal, psychological, and social shifts during this time heighten the risk of depression, yet it is frequently neglected in healthcare. Thus, it is crucial to evaluate the prevalence of depression and its contributing factors in this demographic. The research aims to identify the depression prevalence among women aged 45 to 55 in Ho Chi Minh City and examine the associated factors.

A community-based study took place in Ho Chi Minh City using a multi-stage cluster sampling approach. From March to December 2025, 669 perimenopausal women filled out a self-administered questionnaire. Their depression symptoms were evaluated with the PHQ-9 scale, using a cut-off score of 5 or higher to indicate depression risk.

The prevalence of depression in perimenopausal women was 25.1% (95% CI: 21.9-28.6). Factors associated with depression included: domestic violence (POR = 4.72), chronic medical conditions (POR = 1.85), anxiety about family problems (POR = 1.68), hot flashes (POR = 2.04), and painful intercourse (POR = 2.02).

The prevalence of depressive disorders among perimenopausal women is greater than that in women of reproductive age and is similar to that found in older women in Ho Chi Minh City. Given their susceptibility to mental health challenges, women aged 45-55 in the city should be regarded as a critical health priority by health administrators, necessitating early screening and intervention initiatives within the community.