According to a new study, YES!
Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life, but it can bring challenges that affect both physical and mental well-being. Recent research has shed light on the effectiveness of hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) in alleviating menopausal depression. In this blog post, we delve into the findings of this study, comparing comparing HRT with antidepressants and discussing how personalized care can support women’s health during this transition.
Menopause Hormone Therapy Study Conclusion
“There was a high rate of depressive symptoms in those seeking specialized menopause care (62%). MHT (menopausal hormonal therapy) use was associated with significantly improved depressive symptoms, both alone and in addition to an antidepressant medication (P < 0.001)…” 1
Their conclusion: “This study supports the use of MHT to improve depressive symptoms experienced by those seeking specialized menopause care.”
Comparing Risks: Hormone Replacement vs. Antidepressants
My take: Their findings make sense from several perspectives and are supported by the convergence of evidence.2 While hormone replacements have their risks and require individualized use, antidepressants present even more concerning risks, including increased risk of suicide, weight gain, decreased sexual function, libido, and heart rhythm issues.
HRT, however, has shown an improved sense of well-being, body composition, and sex drive and function, even in conservative past research. The above study demonstrated beneficial results for both peri- and menopausal women.
Challenges of Menopause: Addressing Concerns Early
Consider the challenges faced by menopausal women: keeping up with younger colleagues, the stress of aging parents and raising children, and more. Poor sleep from night sweats, a decreased desire for sex, and hot flashes can compound these stressors. This can lead to clinical depression, which is concerning.
Even before perimenopause, the subtle decrease in other important sex hormones like DHEA and testosterone can set the stage for these concerns as early as a woman’s thirties. Andropause doesn’t have to be just part of aging.
At Unison Pro-Youth Institute, we specialize in individualizing optimal health for mind and body, in the safest, most effective way. That includes providing hormonal replacement therapy to help treat menopausal depression along with other symptoms. We can balance your hormones and address other concerns you may have in our unique integrative, functional medical fashion. Schedule a consultation today! We’d love to help you!
Not ready to book a consultation? Learn more about topics like these in my book The MidLife Health Guide for Women.
- Gnanasegar, Rahavi BHSc1,2; Wolfman, Wendy MD, FRCSC, FACOG, MSCP3; Galan, Leticia Hernandez PhD1; Cullimore, Amie MD, MSc, FRCSC, MSCP1,2; Shea, Alison K. MD, PhD, FRCSC, MSCP1,2. Does menopause hormone therapy improve symptoms of depression? Findings from a specialized menopause clinic. Menopause ():10.1097/GME.0000000000002325, February 20, 2024. | DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002325 ↩︎
- Please read my book The MidLife Health Guide for Women for further understanding of “the convergence of evidence”. ↩︎
