Bipolar Disorder and Perimenopause: An Update.

What was studied

This review gave an update on bipolar disorder (BD) and perimenopause. Perimenopause has been tied to worse mood in some people, including more depressive symptoms. The link with BD is understudied. The team searched Embase from January 1, 2018 to August 5, 2026. Studies of bipolar disorder of any type were included. They had to look at perimenopause directly or indirectly. Pooled samples counted if they gave separate BD results. Results were summed up in words.

What they found

The studies came from several countries, such as Australia, Italy and the UK. There was converging evidence that perimenopause is a time of higher risk of new-onset BD. In people with existing BD, depression and anxiety rose in perimenopause. These were the most consistent findings. Findings for hypomania and mania were mixed. Hormone replacement therapy and other treatments had limited or absent evidence.

What it means for patients

The authors say perimenopause may be a time of higher risk for new BD. They say more depression and anxiety were the most consistent findings in existing BD. They say perimenopause may matter in BD management. They encourage studies that use standard menopause staging criteria.

Why it is not certain yet

The abstract says evidence on treatment was limited or absent. Findings on hypomania and mania were mixed. The review searched Embase only. Results were summed up in words, not pooled. A review can only be as good as the studies in it.

Source

Bipolar Disorder and Perimenopause: An Update.

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