Clinical evaluation in studies of perimenopausal women: position paper.
In some women, the perimenopause is associated with the onset of depressive illness, and it is possible that the changes in gonadal steroids accompanying the perimenopause increase an individual's vulnerability to mood destabilization. This article reviews selected aspects of the literature on the relationship between the perimenopause and depression, outlines the evaluation of depression occurring in the context of the perimenopause from a clinical research perspective, and emphasizes methodologic issues to be considered in future studies.
Schmidt
P J
PJ
Behavioral Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1276, USA.
Roca
C A
CA
Rubinow
D R
DR
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017697:Premenopause / Q000523:psychology*; D012106:Research; D014930:Women