[Psychosomatic aspects of menopause: review of the literature 1988-1992]

Abstract

Based on an analysis of medical and psychological studies published in 1988-1992 a review about psychosomatic aspects of the menopause is presented. While more than 1000 studies on medical/gynecological aspects of the menopause and especially "hormone replacement therapy" were published in English or German, psychological aspects seemed to have been neglected in about 90% of those articles. Only in the abstracts of 58 studies on menopause the keywords psychosom*, psychology or quality of life were mentioned. The methods of those psychosomatic studies are summarized, and central results concerning the description of menopausal experiences, psychosocial influences, prevention and interventions are referred. Research deficits and implications for prevention and therapy are discussed critically.