Using network analysis to understand the association between menopause and depressive symptoms

Abstract

It has been proposed that depressive symptoms occurring throughout the menopause may be linked to specific menopause symptoms. The objectives of this study were (i) to use network analysis to explore the symptom structure of menopause and depressive symptoms, and (ii) to compare the symptom structure of menopause and depressive symptoms between the perimenopause and the post-menopause. The Menopause-specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) and the eight-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) were used to measure menopause and depressive symptoms, with online survey data from 858 respondents included for analysis. The most central symptoms were decreased stamina, decreased physical strength, feeling depressed, and change in sexual desire. The network demonstrated good stability (CS-strength = 0.75 and CS-influence = 0.75), with no significant differences in structure between the perimenopause and post-menopause groups. Addressing decreased stamina and psychosocial symptoms could prove instrumental in managing menopause symptoms. Early intervention is crucial for overcoming barriers and providing essential support.