Women who have experienced early menopause can be at greater risk of depression, anxiety and mood changes. This is particularly so for women who have had a surgical menopause. This may be because of the sudden hormonal changes resulting in symptoms that are often more severe and unpredictable. It may also be due to the reason for the early menopause - such as a cancer diagnosis. Women who experience early menopause ‘naturally’ may also find they are more moody and sad. Sometimes this is to do with physical changes and sometimes this is to do with psychological and social influences.

How this impacts on each woman is likely to be different as each woman deals with her diagnosis and its meaning over time. It is important to seek help for any persistent changes in mood that are worrying. Talking to someone who understands what you may be feeling can be helpful, and seeking one of the many effective treatments for depression and anxiety is also important.

I know that I am not the same person I was before I had my ovaries removed…I am less energetic and ‘can’t be bothered’ sometimes – whether it is completely to do with menopause or not I’m not sure. Robin

Content updated May 04, 2006