The Relationship Between Estrogens and Depression

The Relationship Between Estrogens and Depression Depression Causes Print The Relationship Between Estrogens and Depression By Nancy Schimelpfening Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. Nancy has a lifetime of experience with depression, experiencing firsthand how devastating this illness can be. Learn about our editorial policy Nancy Schimelpfening Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on February 04, 2020 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids EyesWideOpen / Getty Images To answer the question of whether conjugated estrogens like Premarin can cause depression or anxiety, we must first talk about what estrogen is. Estrogen is a group of hormones which play a vital role in womens sexual and reproductive health.?? They are often referred to as sex hormones because of this. Estrogen helps to regulate a womans sexual development, as well as her ability to conceive and bear children. Conjugated Estrogens Premarin is a brand of conjugated estrogens, which are a type of hormonal medication containing a mixture of estrogens. In Premarins case, these have been isolated from the urine of pregnant mares: PREgnant MARes urINe. It is used to treat symptoms associated with menopause and other low-estrogen conditions, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It is also used in the prevention of osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) after menopause, some breast, and prostate cancer symptoms, and certain premenopausal conditions. The Link Between Estrogen and Mood It is well known that estrogen affects depression and anxiety.?? Women who are in their peak estrogen-producing years or transitioning to menopause tend to be affected by these disorders more often than either men or postmenopausal women. In addition, when women are experiencing hormonal fluctuations, such as prior to their menstrual periods and after giving birth, they tend to be more prone to mood disorders. Perhaps not too surprisingly, depression and anxiety are also potential side effects of medications like Premarin, which affect hormone levels. The reason that estrogen-containing medications have the potential to affect mood is that estrogen plays many roles in the body, affecting more than just the sex organs. It can exert effects on the urinary tract, the heart, the blood vessels, bones, breasts, skin, hair, mucous membranes, pelvic muscles, and the brain.?? Though Premarin can cause the side effects of depression or anxiety, studies have shown  that women who take conjugated estrogen during late menopause and early postmenopause have markedly less depression and anxiety than those who received a placebo.?? Estrogens Effects on the Brain Some of estrogens effects on the brain and nervous system include:?? Regulating neurotransmitter systems that affect mood, like serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrineSensitivity to the fluctuation of estrogen levels in the amygdala, which is linked to mood regulationStimulating beneficial mood-related actions in the hippocampus Some women may be exceptionally sensitive to changes in hormone levels, causing them to be more susceptible to depression when these levels are off. Signs of Depression While it isnt known how often women become depressed while using Premarin, it is a potentially serious side effect. Symptoms of depression include: SadnessInability to enjoy things that used to be pleasurableFatigue or low energyProblems with thinking, concentration, or memoryFeelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessnessFeelings of hopelessnessProblems with sleepProblems with weight or appetiteIrritability or restlessnessThoughts of death or suicide If you are using Premarin and experience any of these symptoms for two weeks or more, especially thoughts of death or suicide, you should consult with your healthcare provider for advice.