Depression;

Abstract

Depression is a common problem among women. Different variables contributein influencing depression among women. Menopause is one variable that may trigger symptomsof depression. Different variables jointly contribute in influencing the presentation of menopausalsymptoms including sociocultural, psychological and environmental factors. No studies havebeen conducted to assess mean age and symptoms of depression among menopausalwomen of Mardan. Objectives: To assess accompanying symptoms of depression and theirseverity among menopausal women. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: GynaeOut-patient Department at Mardan Medical Complex. Period: February 2017 to October 2017.Methods: The sample consisted of 200 women ranging in age from 45-71 years. Each patientwas assessed using sociodemographic sheet, menopausal symptoms were assessed usingMenopausal rating scale and severity of depression was measured using Hamilton depressionscale. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS Version 21.0. Results: According to thefindings of this study, mean age at menopause was noted to be 49.1 ranging from 44-59. Amongthe many predominant menopausal symptoms, the most common among these symptomsreported were joint and muscle discomfort in 62% of women, followed by sleep problem (17%),and physical and mental exhaustion (11%). The least reported menopausal symptoms weredrying of vagina, sexual problems and anxiety. Depression was found among 26 % of thefemale participants according to Hamilton scoring criteria. Mild depressive symptoms werenoted among 24%, moderate depressive symptoms 14%, severe 5% and very severe 7%.Conclusion: According to the results of the current study, 50 % of the participants lies in therange of depression according to Hamilton depression scores. Among these 50%, more thanhalf 26 % lies in the range of severe to very severe depression while the rest 24% lies in therange of mild to moderate depression.