Depression and Related Disorders during the Female Reproductive Cycle

For some women, times of reproductive transition represent times of high risk for the onset or exacerbation of depressive symptoms. In order to maintain emotional stability, the female brain must adapt to fluctuations in hormones that affect neurotransmitter functioning. Difficulty with this adaptation, along with stresses related to social role transitions, may confer heightened vulnerability to depression. In this review, we summarize data regarding the course, expression and risks of depression and related symptoms during puberty and menarche, the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the perinatal period and perimenopause. We note treatment strategies that have been found to be effective for depressive symptoms during specific phases of the female reproductive cycle.