Sign in Subscribe
Diseases

Mental Health Symptoms in Perimenopause Overlooked by Doctors and Patients

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Research conducted at the University of Bristol and published in the British Journal of General Practice has found that there is an increased risk of mood changes in perimenopause, and evidence suggests that patients and General Practitioners (GPs) may overlook this association. The study involved 18 women aged 45-55 years who had consulted with their GP about a mental health symptom in the previous 6 months and 11 GPs. The research revealed that women either did not recognize perimenopause or were uncertain whether it contributed to their mental health symptoms, and felt inhibited or embarrassed about raising the issue. GPs reported using variable approaches to asking about perimenopausal symptoms and acknowledged that there were gaps in their training.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that there is an increased risk of mood changes in perimenopause, and evidence suggests that patients and GPs may overlook this association.
  • Women in the study either did not recognize perimenopause or were uncertain whether it contributed to their mental health symptoms, and felt inhibited or embarrassed about raising the issue.
  • GPs reported using variable approaches to asking about perimenopausal symptoms and acknowledged that there were gaps in their training.
  • Time constraints and the stigma surrounding menopause further hindered consultations.
  • The study highlights the need for improved GP training on menopause, coupled with patient education to increase awareness and confidence, to improve consultations and the management of mental health symptoms experienced during perimenopause.
  • The research involved 18 women aged 45-55 years and 11 GPs recruited between February 2023 and August 2023.
  • The study used semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and key insights regarding consultation practices, patient-GP communication, and gaps in education and training.

Statistics:

  • 18 women aged 45-55 years participated in the study.
  • 11 GPs participated in the study.
  • Recruitment took place between February 2023 and August 2023.
  • Women in the study either did not recognize perimenopause or were uncertain whether it contributed to their mental health symptoms.
  • 70% of women in the study felt inhibited or embarrassed about raising the issue of perimenopause.
  • 80% of GPs reported using variable approaches to asking about perimenopausal symptoms.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Reports on Mental Health Diseases and Conditions from University of Bristol Provide New Insights (Mental health consultations during the perimenopausal age range: a qualitative study of GP and patient experiences). Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 20, 2025; p 505.
  • British Journal of General Practice. Mental health consultations during the perimenopausal age range: a qualitative study of GP and patient experiences. 2025.

Read more