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Abstract: There is a high incidence of depression in women presenting to menopause clinics. The aim of this review was to determine if there is an association between depressive symptoms or major depressive disorder (MDD) and vasomotor symptoms (VMS). A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. 33 relevant publications were found, 12 from three large studies. Overall, we found that there is a bidirectional association between VMS and depressive symptoms. This has been established in well-conducted, large observational studies. There does not appear to be a relationship between VMS and MDD. However, studies examining VMS and MDD were prone to bias making it difficult to draw any conclusions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In recent years the perimenopause has become recognised as a ‘window of vulnerability’ for women''s mood. The risk of depression during perimenopause is high and treatment failure is common. Perimenopausal depression encompasses both new onset (first episode) depression occurring during perimenopause as well as a relapse during perimenopause in women with a history of depression. Perimenopausal depression is increasingly recognised as a new subtype of depression with specific clinical characteristics. Current treatments for perimenopausal depression have high failure rates, multiple adverse effects and potentially damaging long term consequences. This review examines both new onset and relapsed depression during perimenopause, biological mechanisms of perimenopausal depression, and the role of hormonal therapies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]