Depression in Women across the Life Cycle

Abstract

Several depressive disorders are unique to women, affecting them at various points in their life cycle. These disorders include premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), pregnancy-associated depressive disorders, and perimenopausal affective disorders. Recently, the importance of the relationship between depression and the reproductive cycle has been highlighted due to the approval of medications to treat (PMDD). The role of gender difference in the prevalence of depressive disorders has long been recognized. This article will examine whether there are differences between men and women in the clinical presentation of depression, including differences in symptom manifestation, course of illness, comorbidities, and treatment. Systematic evaluation of the role of hormonal and neuroendocrine factors may lead to more appropriate treatment of depressive disorders in women.