Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Associated With Depressive Symptoms

There is a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among woman who are diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), according to recent data published in Menopause.1 The authors of the study said the findings highlight the need for targeted mental health support that addresses the unique needs of this patient population.

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POI is characterized by impaired ovarian follicle function before the age of 40 and affects approximately 3.7% of women worldwide. In addition to fertility challenges, POI increases the long-term risk of bone loss, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. While many cases remain idiopathic, evidence increasingly supports a strong genetic basis, with the age of menopause recognized as a heritable trait. 2

“Women with POI not only experience the symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency but also experience the loss of reproductive function,” the authors wrote. “A combination of these factors may lead to various psychological problems that significantly impact their quality of life.”

Investigators from the Erasmus University Medical Center conducted a study to explore associations between clinical and patient reported variables and depressive symptoms in women with POI. Data for the study was gathered from the university’s Women’s Health Research and Innovation Center.

The study included 345 women with POI who attended the hospital’s multidisciplinary POI care unit between April 2020 and December 2023. Before each hospital visit, the women were asked to complete multiple questionnaires, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the Greene Climacteric scale (GCS), and a questionnaire about general health, medical history and lifestyle. Additionally, a comprehensive patient assessment and personalized health care plan was formulated at the first visit.

The study found that of the 345 women, 103 reported depressive symptoms. Women who were younger at the time of POI diagnosis, lacked emotional support, or had an increase in severe menopausal symptoms were more likely to experience depressive symptoms. The study also found that there was no difference in depressive symptoms between women who used estrogen plus progestogen therapy and those who did not.

Additionally, a subgroup analysis showed that lower fertility related quality of life and limited emotional support were related to depressive symptoms in women who were experiencing fertility-related grief.

“Our findings underscore the high prevalence of depressive symptoms in this population and highlight the importance of comprehensive care addressing both physical and psychological aspects of menopause at an early age,” the authors concluded. “To fully address the mental health needs of women with POI, a multidisciplinary approach is essential, incorporating psychological support, symptom management strategies, and tailored interventions to address the specific challenges faced by this population.”

READ MORE: Women’s Health Resource Center

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References
1. van Zwol-Janssens C, Louwers YV, Laven JSE, et al. Depressive symptoms in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI): a cross-sectional observational study. Menopause. 2025 Jul 15. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002614. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40663547.
2. Federici S, Rossetti R, Moleri S, et al. Primary ovarian insufficiency: update on clinical and genetic findings. Front Endocrinol. 2024 Sep 26;15:1464803. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1464803. PMID: 39391877; PMCID: PMC11466302.

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