DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH MENOPAUSAL HORMONAL CHANGES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Introduction: Menopause represents a key transition in a woman’s life, frequently accompanied by hormonal fluctuations that may contribute to depressive disorders. Objective: The primary objective was to systematically evaluate the relationship between menopausal hormonal changes and depressive disorders, with secondary objectives including the assessment of clinical interventions, risk factors, and biological mechanisms. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, LILACS, ClinicalTrials.gov, and ICTRP. Studies published in the last 5 years were included, with extension to 10 years if fewer than 10 studies met eligibility. Inclusion criteria focused on human studies, with animal or in vitro studies placed in separate tables. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2, ROBINS-I, and QUADAS-2, while certainty of evidence was graded with GRADE. Results and Discussion: From 1326 identified records, 21 studies were included. The findings demonstrated a consistent association between fluctuating estrogen levels and depressive symptoms, particularly in perimenopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy showed variable effects on mood outcomes, while psychosocial factors acted as important modifiers. Conclusion: Menopausal hormonal changes are significantly linked with increased risk of depressive disorders, underscoring the need for integrative, evidence-based management strategies. Descriptors: Depression, Menopause, Hormones, Mental Health