Gom Mirian
Infertility may contribute to an increased likelihood of experiencing menopausal symptoms later in life, medical experts have revealed.
This is according to a recent study conducted by The Menopause Society’s journal, titled: ‘Exploring the relationship between the history of infertility and the experience of menopausal symptoms.’
It found that women who struggled with infertility were more prone to mood swings, irritability and difficulties sleeping during menopause, thereby shedding light on the often overlooked correlation between infertility and mental well-being.
“Despite the scarcity of studies on the association between infertility and the onset of menopause or the severity of menopausal symptoms, there is some indication that women with a history of infertility may suffer earlier menopause and more severe menopausal symptoms,” it stated.
It continued, “Furthermore, stressful life experiences have been associated with increased menopause symptoms, and infertility is as upsetting as receiving a cancer diagnosis.
“The goal of this new study involving nearly 700 midlife women was to specifically evaluate the effect of a lifetime history of infertility on the experience of menopause symptoms in midlife. Of the study participants, roughly one-third (36.6 per cent) reported ever experiencing infertility.”
Dr. Stephanie Faubion, lead researcher and the medical director for The Menopause Society emphasised the importance of recognising and addressing the psychological impact of infertility on women’s overall health.
“This study shows an association between a history of infertility and increased odds of depression and sleep symptoms in midlife. Women in midlife with a history of infertility may benefit from increased screening for depression,” she stated.
