A review of studies of the psychological symptoms found at the menopause.

The scientific literature was reviewed in order to determine whether psychological symptoms were directly associated with the menopause. Aetiology theories of symptoms include biological, psychological, sociological and multifactorial. There is evidence that psychological symptoms do occur in increased frequency in relationship to declining ovarian function. The severity of these symptoms may be affected by sociological variables. Administration of oestrogens alone or in combination with progestogens appear to alleviate some of the symptoms. More detailed research is needed into the relationship between psychological symptoms and the menopause.