Archives Of Women's Mental Health[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Estimated Impact of Pressure to Conceive on Maternal Depression in Lesotho: A Quasi-experimental Propensity Score Matching using DHS Data.
Jejaw M, Kelkay JM, Demissie KA … +7 more , Hagos A, Teshale G, Baykemagn ND, Tadele A, Tafere TZ, Aschalew AY, Yehuala TZ
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41776071 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In Southern Africa, Lesotho reports the highest estimated rates of depression, with women disproportionately affected. Cultural, societal, familial, and spousal pressure on women to become pregnant is a subst...
BACKGROUND: In Southern Africa, Lesotho reports the highest estimated rates of depression, with women disproportionately affected. Cultural, societal, familial, and spousal pressure on women to become pregnant is a substantial public health concern linked with an increased risk of depression. However, there is limited evidence on the impact of pressure to become pregnant on depression in Lesotho using propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Therefore, this study employed PSM to estimate the effect of pressure to become pregnant on depression among married women in Lesotho. METHOD: A total of 1600 unweighted married women were included in the analysis using the recent 2023/24 Lesotho Demography and Health Survey (LDHS). The analysis used a propensity score matching analysis (PSM) with a logit model using the psmatch2 package in Stata to estimate the average treatment effect on the population (ATE), the treated (ATT), and the untreated (ATU) for the effect of pressure to become pregnant on depression. Kernel matching with a caliper width of 0.01 was used to match individuals in the two groups. The quality of the matches was evaluated statistically and graphically. Sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the PSM results, using the Mantel-Haenszel test statistics. RESULT: The overall prevalence of depression among married women in Lesotho was 6.83% (95% CI: 5.68%, 8.20%). The PSM analysis showed that experiencing pressure to become pregnant increased the likelihood of depression by 6.3% (ATT = 0.063, 95% CI: 0.0138, 0.1122). The average treatment effect (ATE = 0.058, 95% CI: 0.0443, 0.0721) indicated that pressure to become pregnant significantly increased the risk of depression in the overall population by 5.8%. The average treatment effect for untreated (ATU = 0.0515) underscored that women who had not experienced pressure to become pregnant would have a 5.15% higher risk of developing depression if they had been exposed. Overall, these findings highlight that pressure to become pregnant significantly increases the risk of depression. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: This evaluation found that spouse or family pressure to become pregnant significantly increases the risk of depression. These findings underscore pregnancy pressure, pressing attention to reproductive coercion and community-based initiatives to mitigate its mental health consequences. Thus, policymakers and programmers should strengthen reproductive autonomy protection in mental health policies. Additionally, health care providers should screen for reproductive coercion during routine antenatal visits and offer counseling services to decrease the risk of depression. Community-based education campaigns and peer support groups involving men and families are also recommended to help reduce fertility-related pressures.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication use and cardiometabolic conditions in pregnancy: a population-based cohort study.
Sit A, Bruno C, Araki M … +2 more , Gillies MB, Zoega H
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41772326 · Full text
PURPOSE: Use of medications to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly prevalent among women of reproductive age, but little is understood about their potential cardiometabolic effects in pr...
PURPOSE: Use of medications to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly prevalent among women of reproductive age, but little is understood about their potential cardiometabolic effects in pregnancy. We aimed to examine associations between ADHD medication use and cardiometabolic conditions during pregnancy (gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes) and the pharmacological treatment thereof. METHODS: Linking statewide hospital and dispensing data, we conducted a population-based matched cohort study of women who gave birth between January 2014 and June 2021 in New South Wales, Australia (n = 312,697). We compared the incidence of cardiometabolic conditions and cardiometabolic medication use during pregnancy among women who used ADHD medications during pregnancy (n = 336) with a 1:10 matched cohort of unexposed women, and with women who used ADHD medications in the 12 months before pregnancy (n = 252). We used Poisson regression models to calculate risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusting for sociodemographic and pregnancy-related factors. RESULTS: Compared with unexposed women, women who used ADHD medications during pregnancy had an increased risk of gestational hypertension (adjusted RR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.20-2.57) and gestational diabetes (aRR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09-1.82), with slightly elevated risk estimates for preeclampsia (aRR: 1.30, 95% CI: 0.82-2.05) and cardiometabolic medication use (aRR: 1.40, 95% CI: 0.97-2.01). Compared with women who used ADHD medications before pregnancy only, risk estimates attenuated for all outcomes except gestational diabetes (aRR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.06-2.93). CONCLUSIONS: Women using ADHD medications had an elevated incidence of cardiometabolic conditions during pregnancy, but it remains unclear to what extent this is attributable to medications rather than the underlying ADHD.
Insights on "informed consent and contraception when prescribing valproate to individuals of childbearing potential: a quality improvement project".
Mehak M, Shafee WF
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41760979 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Global, regional and national prevalence of mental disorders among women at childbearing age from 1992 to 2021.
Fan Z, Li W, Deng T … +5 more , Xu H, Xu Y, Ao G, Zhang H, Xu F
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41739227 · Publisher ↗
AIMS: To investigate the trends in prevalence of mental disorders - schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity d...
AIMS: To investigate the trends in prevalence of mental disorders - schizophrenia, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, idiopathic developmental intellectual disability, and other mental disorders - among women of childbearing age at global, regional and national level from1992 to 2021, and further to examine the independent effects of age, period, and birth cohort on mental disorders. METHODS: Data were derived from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021. An age-period-cohort analysis was adopted to investigate the annual percentage change in prevalence rate overall (net drifts, % per year) and by age (local drifts, % per year), and age-, period-, and cohort-effect on the prevalence rate among participants between 1992 and 2021. RESULTS: In 2021, the global prevalence cases of overall mental disorders in women at childbearing age were 343.22 million. Over the past three decades, the largest increase in case number was observed in low socio-demographic index (SDI) region (144.21%), while the most significant increase in age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) was identified in high SDI region (18.30%). The global net drift in prevalence rate of mental disorders among participants was estimated as -0.02 (95%CI: -0.04 to -0.00) annually. Moreover, prevalence trends were highly heterogeneous across all the global 204 countries/territories. Anxiety disorders and depression disorders were the top two contributors of overall prevalence of mental disorders, accounting for the largest proportion of total prevalence (66.2% in 1992 and 70.4% in 2021) among all types of mental disorders. For overall global population, an increasing age effect, V-shape pattern of period effect, and stable cohort effect were separately identified upon mental disorder burden. Notably, the V-shape period effect may reflect that positive mental health policy gains (pre-2016) were disrupted by COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: The global burden of mental disorders among women at childbearing age remained high during 1992 and 2021, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders were more prevalent in this population. Disparities of mental disorders existed in regions, countries and sub-populations with different age. These findings imply that mental health issue has become a significant public health challenge worldwide. This study has important policy and population health implications, suggesting that country-specific and subpopulation-tailored intervention strategies should be implemented for the purpose to reduce the burden of mental disorders among women at childbearing age worldwide.
Navigating postpartum psychosis: perspectives, needs, expectations and experiences of women and their families - a systematic review.
Sanadi R, Raj EA, Kuppusamy CV … +2 more , Arasappa R, Chandra PS
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41697426 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Postpartum Psychosis (PP) is a severe form of perinatal mental illness and may have profound consequences for the well-being of mothers, infants, and families. AIM: This systematic review explores the exper...
INTRODUCTION: Postpartum Psychosis (PP) is a severe form of perinatal mental illness and may have profound consequences for the well-being of mothers, infants, and families. AIM: This systematic review explores the experiences, needs, perspectives, and expectations of women with postpartum psychosis and that of their families. DESIGN: A systematic review used the meta-aggregation method. METHOD: A systematic search was conducted using 5 electronic databases-PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies published between 01 January 2012 and 31 December 2024. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and included peer-reviewed studies in English. Study quality was independently assessed by two investigators using Covidence software and the Mirza and Jenkins checklist (2004). Qualitative, explorative, and descriptive studies employing thematic or interpretative analyses were included. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were included in this synthesis. Findings reveal a complex interplay between postpartum psychosis and family dynamics, which is also shaped by cultural narratives surrounding motherhood. These narratives show how women and families perceive illness and seek help. Five key themes and fifteen subthemes emerged: (1) An understanding of postpartum psychosis, (2) Baby being central to recovery, (3) The importance of support and network systems, (4) Being overwhelmed with responsibilities, and (5) Future plans and plans related to future pregnancy. Poor awareness and systemic barriers often leave families feeling unsupported. Mothers experience emotional exhaustion, viewing the baby as both a comfort and a stressor. Fathers report a need for professional support and struggle with shifting family roles, particularly during separation in mother-baby unit admissions. CONCLUSION: The review underscores the importance of timely, family-centered care in the management of postpartum psychosis. Mothers and families appear to be overwhelmed at a vulnerable time of their lives and have to navigate systemic barriers to care. Active involvement of families in treatment with culturally sensitive interventions can foster coping, facilitate maternal recovery, and promote maternal-infant bonding.
The lived experiences of women with polycystic ovary syndrome and its psychological challenges: A systematic review and meta-synthesis.
Khan F, Govender N, Mitha SB … +1 more , Thandar Y
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41673346 · Full text
PURPOSE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) presents psychological challenges in women due to persistent symptoms such as hirsutism, irregular menstruation, and weight gain, and long-term complications like infertility. Wo...
PURPOSE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) presents psychological challenges in women due to persistent symptoms such as hirsutism, irregular menstruation, and weight gain, and long-term complications like infertility. Women with PCOS face higher risks of depression, anxiety, body image dissatisfaction, and social challenges. Research often overlooks the psychological burden of PCOS, despite its documented effects. This systematic review aims to explore the lived psychological experiences of women with PCOS, encompassing mental health challenges, emotional well-being, and psychosocial factors. It also aims to identify sociocultural variations in psychosocial challenges. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across six bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane, CINAHL, PubMed, and SCOPUS) from inception to April 2024. Qualitative and mixed-methods studies in English exploring the psychological experiences of women with PCOS were included. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-QARI), and findings were synthesized using a JBI-guided pragmatic meta-aggregation approach. RESULTS: A total of 43 studies were included, yielding 240 unequivocal findings and 46 credible findings which were meta-aggregated into two themes: (1) Mental Health Challenges associated with PCOS (2) Psychosocial Challenges associated with PCOS. CONCLUSION: Depression, anxiety, body image dissatisfaction, and social stigma significantly impact women with PCOS. Hirsutism and being overweight are prominent stressors, particularly affecting psychological well-being in this group. Sociocultural factors play a role in shaping psychological experiences. Effective PCOS care requires mental health support, fertility counselling, and culturally sensitive interventions to improve health outcomes.
Post partum decision making, letter to the editor.
Zuberi N, Boyd JW
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41670780 · Publisher ↗
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The effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Karaçam Z, Ofei P, Uzunoğlu G … +1 more , Güneş Öztürk G
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41665756 · Full text
PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth among pregnant women based on previously conducted studies. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials a...
PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth among pregnant women based on previously conducted studies. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The data were pooled through meta-analysis. ROBINS-I and RoB2 were used to assess the quality of the studies. The GRADE approach was used for evaluating the certainty of evidence. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 28 studies and the total sample size of the studies was 3073. The results showed that statistically, prenatal education significantly reduced the fear of childbirth during both the antepartum and postpartum period (SMD: -1.12, z = 9.14, p < 0.001; MD: -24.35, z = 6.18, p < 0.001 respectively). The meta-regression performed indicated that the study design, the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, data collection tools, the countries of the studies and features of education had no effect on the results of fear of childbirth in pregnancy. Moreover, the meta-analyses showed that prenatal education increased the likelihood of vaginal birth and the preference for vaginal birth approximately by two times and three times respectively (OR: 2.00, z = 4.82, p < 0.001; OR: 2.87, z = 3.89, p = 0.001 respectively). The certainty of evidence was low for fear of childbirth during pregnancy, moderate for fear of childbirth in the postpartum period and high for vaginal birth and preference for vaginal birth. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that prenatal education was effective for reducing the fear of childbirth and therefore, increasing vaginal births. REGISTRATION NUMBER: CCRD42022378547.
Sex differences in neurocognitive response to metacognitive training in first-episode psychosis: Implications for personalized interventions.
Verdaguer-Rodríguez M, Comas JO, López-Carrilero R … +12 more , Díaz-Cutraro L, Espinosa V, Ruiz-Delgado I, Barrigón ML, Grasa E, Pousa E, González-Higueras F, Cid J, Lorente-Rovira E, Barajas A, Spanish Metacognition Study Group, Ochoa S
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41661387 · Full text
PURPOSE: Neurocognitive impairments are a core feature of psychosis and impact long-term outcomes. While sex differences in neurocognition have been observed in first-episode psychosis (FEP), findings remain mixed, and l...
PURPOSE: Neurocognitive impairments are a core feature of psychosis and impact long-term outcomes. While sex differences in neurocognition have been observed in first-episode psychosis (FEP), findings remain mixed, and little is known about differential responses to metacognitive interventions. This study examined sex differences in the effectiveness of Metacognitive Training (MCT) on neurocognitive outcomes in FEP. METHODS: A total of 122 individuals with FEP were randomized to receive either MCT or psychoeducational intervention. Neurocognitive performance was assessed at baseline and at 6-month follow-up using a comprehensive battery (CPT-II, TMT, WCST, Stroop test, TAVEC, WAIS-III Digit Span). General Linear Models tested the effects of intervention, sex, and their interaction, both unadjusted and adjusted for covariates. RESULTS: MCT led to greater improvements than psychoeducation in immediate recall, processing speed, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and attention. Improvements in immediate recall and Stroop Interference remained significant after adjustment, with Stroop performance also influenced by diagnosis. Across groups, men performed better in verbal memory, while women showed increased serial clustering in short-term recall, an effect that remained significant after adjustment. Notably, a group-by-sex interaction indicated that women receiving MCT experienced greater gains in short-term recall after controlling for covariates. CONCLUSIONS: MCT enhances specific neurocognitive functions in FEP and shows promising effects for women in verbal memory processes. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating sex and diagnostic factors when tailoring early interventions for psychosis and highlight the potential of MCT as a personalized cognitive strategy.
Perinatal depression screening and diagnosis: Identifying opportunities to improve optimal care.
Ryckman K, Peters M, Parker E … +9 more , Golzarri-Arroyo L, Jones D, Adeagbo M, Hamil J, Shelton B, Cho H, Tabb K, Tandon SD, Faro E
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41649594 · Full text
PURPOSE: Perinatal depression (PND), occurring during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth, is a common medical complication with serious consequences when left untreated, including hospitalizations, incre...
PURPOSE: Perinatal depression (PND), occurring during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth, is a common medical complication with serious consequences when left untreated, including hospitalizations, increased morbidity, and suicide. This study examined the intersection among racial, ethnic, and sociodemographic disparities in PND screening and diagnosis within a Midwestern health system. METHODS: We performed a multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA) using electronic health record data for 79,992 deliveries. The study included women aged 15-50 who delivered live-born infants between 22 and 44 weeks of gestation. PND screening was identified by the presence of a PHQ-9 or EPDS score, and ICD9/10 codes were used to define depression diagnosis within one year before or after delivery. RESULTS: Across groups older women (≥ 36 years) were less likely to be screened for PND (OR = 0.65; 95%CI = 0.56-0.75) but not less likely to be diagnosed. Non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and Asian women were more likely to receive PND screening (ORs = 1.23-1.31) but less likely to be diagnosed (ORs = 0.16-0.60) compared to Non-Hispanic White women. Enrollment in public insurance was not associated with PND screening but was linked to a higher likelihood of diagnosis (OR = 1.41, CI = 1.24-1.61). Women in rural areas were less likely to be screened for PND (OR = 0.66, CI = 0.58-0.75), with no significant association with diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Significant disparities exist in PND screening and diagnosis. Groups facing historic structural inequities are more likely to be screened but less likely to receive a diagnosis, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these inequities.
Health care across the first year postpartum and experiences of women with anxiety/depressive symptoms: A longitudinal cohort of first-time mothers in Ireland (MAMMI).
Hannon S, Gartland D, Higgins A … +2 more , Brown SJ, Daly D
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41642372 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Women’s increased contact with healthcare professionals during pregnancy and the early postpartum make it an opportune time to identify any physical or mental health problems that emerge during this period, y...
BACKGROUND: Women’s increased contact with healthcare professionals during pregnancy and the early postpartum make it an opportune time to identify any physical or mental health problems that emerge during this period, yet mental health problems are under-identified in clinical settings. This study uses quantitative and qualitative survey data from a large prospective study of first-time mothers in Ireland to investigate contacts with healthcare professionals, enquiry about mental health, and women’s satisfaction with the support they received. METHODS: Quantitative and qualitative data were collected during pregnancy and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postpartum. The sample comprised 2572 mothers reporting on postpartum anxiety/depressive symptoms using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. RESULTS: Approximately 50–70% of women reported that a healthcare professional asked about their mental health at three months postpartum. Contact with healthcare professionals and enquiries about maternal health decreased significantly over the course of the first 12 months. Women felt that postpartum care was concluded too soon, and that appointments were often hurried and infant-focused. Women reporting anxiety/depressive symptoms had more frequent appointments for their own and their baby’s health than women who did not report symptoms. Women with symptoms were more likely to indicate they felt uncomfortable addressing sensitive topics and worried about the consequences of disclosure. Many women described positive and supportive interactions with professionals; others reported that their disclosures were dismissed, while some feared that disclosures may lead to judgment, labelling or being recommended psychotropic medication as a solution. CONCLUSIONS: The findings support the need for an expansion of the postpartum care currently provided in Ireland. Greater support for health professionals regarding asking and responding to women’s needs across the postpartum period is required to address mothers’ hesitancy to share concerns and to broaden access and pathways of care.
Female genital self-image and psychological distress: the serial mediating effects of existential shame and limited access to emotion regulation strategies.
Magdala I, Sánchez-Fernández M, Mestre JM
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41636900 · Full text
PURPOSE: Concern about female genital self-image (FGSI) is increasing due to its implications for women's well-being. Previous research has linked negative FGSI to psychological distress. However, the underlying mechanis...
PURPOSE: Concern about female genital self-image (FGSI) is increasing due to its implications for women's well-being. Previous research has linked negative FGSI to psychological distress. However, the underlying mechanisms of this association remain unclear, with shame and emotional dysregulation being potential mediators. This study aimed to test a serial mediation model in which FGSI is associated with psychological distress through shame and emotional dysregulation. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed, with a total of 445 women (Age: M = 40.22, SD = 10.69, range = 17–70) completing an online survey. RESULTS: Linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between psychological distress and both existential shame and limited access to emotion regulation strategies. FGSI and the remaining dimensions of shame and emotional dysregulation did not show a direct significant association with psychological distress. Mediation analysis confirmed that the relationship between FGSI and psychological distress was fully mediated by existential shame, limited access to emotion regulation strategies, and the serial mediation of these two variables. CONCLUSION: These findings have important practical implications for the development of preventive and intervention strategies aimed at women with low FGSI, focusing on addressing feelings of maladaptive shame and enhancing effective emotion regulation strategies.
Postpartum depression literacy among economically disadvantaged Indian working women: roles of health literacy and social determinants.
Banerjee B, Srivastava A, Mitro A
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41632298 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health concern with a high prevalence in India. For working women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, awareness of PPD symptoms and available support is e...
PURPOSE: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health concern with a high prevalence in India. For working women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, awareness of PPD symptoms and available support is essential for early detection and management. However, due to the social stigma associated with mental disorder, general health literacy may not automatically translate into postpartum depression literacy (PPDL). This study investigates the key determinants of PPDL among economically disadvantaged working women in urban India. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Hyderabad and Lucknow between March and August 2024. Using a two-stage sampling method based on socioeconomic indicators, 998 women employed in physically demanding jobs were recruited. The data were collected using the PoDLiS and HLS-EU-Q16 instruments. Descriptive statistics and a two-stage least squares (2SLS) regression model were used to examine the associations and explain the possible endogeneity between health literacy and PPDL. RESULTS: The mean PPDL score was 95.11 (SD = 13.58). Higher monthly household expenditure was positively associated with PPDL, whereas the general health literacy showed a marginally significant inverse relationship. Religion, caste, nuclear family structure, abortion history, and lower personal income were also significantly associated with PPDL. The model explained 17% of the variance. CONCLUSION: The findings highlighted that there is a need for PPD - focused mental health education. To support women from economically marginalised backgrounds, policies and programmes must be designed to overcome social stigma and the everyday barriers they face when accessing mental care.
Sexual dysfunction in women with migraines: a systematic review.
Stech K, Jayachandran A, Zhao H … +1 more , Habibi B
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41632288 · Full text
PURPOSE: The goal of this systematic review is to establish the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with migraines. Secondarily, this review explores factors contributing to the relationship between sexual dysfu...
PURPOSE: The goal of this systematic review is to establish the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with migraines. Secondarily, this review explores factors contributing to the relationship between sexual dysfunction and migraine in women. METHODS: A thorough search of PubMed from inception to June 17, 2024 was completed. Search terms included migraine related terms and sexual dysfunction outcome related terms. Two independent reviewers assessed articles for relevance and extracted information from selected articles. RESULTS: In this review, a thorough search of the MEDLINE and CINAHL databases yielded 16 studies with 1,715 participants. The results demonstrated prevalence rates of sexual dysfunction in female migraine patients between 22.6% and 90%. There was a pooled prevalence of 69% (95% CI 61-77%) with substantial between-study heterogeneity (I = 78.73%). Prevalence rates of sexual dysfunction were higher in women with migraine than in healthy controls. Migraine characteristics, such as duration, frequency, and pain are associated with sexual dysfunction. A bi-directional correlation exists between psychological factors, such as anxiety and depression, and sexual dysfunction in patients with migraine. CONCLUSION: Migraines are associated with profound impacts on health-related quality of life. Sexual dysfunction is commonly associated with migraine in female patients, indicating that clinicians should routinely screen for sexual dysfunction in this population. Anxiety and depression may play a significant role in female sexual dysfunction in migraine.
Depression and anxiety symptoms among Nepali women: a dose-response analysis of emotional abuse and coercive control.
Kanougiya S
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Feb · PMID 41622374 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study investigates how different forms and intensities of intimate partner violence (IPV)-particularly emotional abuse and coercive control control-are associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety amo...
PURPOSE: This study investigates how different forms and intensities of intimate partner violence (IPV)-particularly emotional abuse and coercive control control-are associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety among women in Nepal. METHODS: We analyzed the 2022 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, focusing on 4377 ever-partnered women aged 15-49 years. IPV was categorised into four domains: physical, sexual, emotional, and coercive control. Depression and anxiety were assessed using Nepali versions of the PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Multivariable logistic regression and marginal effects models were applied to estimate associations and explore dose-response patterns. RESULTS: Emotional IPV (aOR = 3.8) and coercive control (aOR = 1.8) were independently associated with moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms. Similar associations were observed for anxiety (emotional IPV aOR = 2.9; coercive control aOR = 1.6). Male partner alcohol use independently increased the risk of both IPV and common mental disorders (CMDs). Predicted probabilities of CMD symptoms were 5.45% with neither IPV nor alcohol use, 7.82% with alcohol use only, 11.64% with IPV only, and 17.95% with both exposures. Marginal effects analysis showed a clear dose-response pattern: each additional act of emotional, physical, or sexual IPV significantly increased CMD risk. CONCLUSION: Psychological IPV-including emotional abuse and coercive control-has a strong, cumulative effect on women's mental health and remains underrecognized in clinical protocol and public health policies. Male partner alcohol use further amplifies this risk. Integrated IPV-mental health-alcohol interventions, grounded in syndemic and trauma-informed frameworks, are urgently needed in Nepal's primary health care systems.
A systematic safety assessment of zuranolone: real-world adverse event analysis from the FAERS database.
Yao K, Liu H
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Jan · PMID 41618048 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This 2023study aims to evaluate the adverse reaction profile of Zuranolone through large-scale analysis of real-world data and to explore its underlying mechanisms, thereby providing complementary evidence for...
OBJECTIVE: This 2023study aims to evaluate the adverse reaction profile of Zuranolone through large-scale analysis of real-world data and to explore its underlying mechanisms, thereby providing complementary evidence for the safe clinical use of Zuranolone. METHODS: Reports associated with Zuranolone were extracted from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, covering the period from the third quarter (Q3) of 2023 to the first quarter (Q1) of 2025. Signal detection was performed using four distinct methods: the reporting odds ratio (ROR), the proportional reporting ratio (PRR), the Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and the Empirical Bayesian Geometric Mean (EBGM). RESULTS: A total of 464 reports of adverse events (AEs) related to Zuranolone were included in this study. Signal detection analysis revealed that Zuranolone was most significantly associated with AEs in the System Organ Classes (SOCs) of nervous system disorders and psychiatric disorders. Among the frequently reported AEs, those related to central nervous system (CNS) depression were particularly prominent, including somnolence (135 cases), dizziness (101 cases), sedation (35 cases), and tremor (32 cases). The study also identified common psychiatric AEs, including known events such as anxiety, suicidal ideation, depression, insomnia, depressed mood, and perinatal depression, as well as new potential AEs including panic attack, anger, bradyphrenia, intrusive thoughts, tachyphrenia, and decreased interest. CONCLUSION: Enhanced monitoring for AEs related to nervous system disorders and psychiatric disorders is required during the clinical use of Zuranolone.
A systematic review of resting-state EEG across the menstrual cycle and its mental health relevance.
García-Granados MD, Cruz-Aguilar MA, Hernández-López LE … +4 more , Mondragón-Ceballos R, Martínez-Mota L, Rivera-García AP, Ramírez-Salado I
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Jan · PMID 41612075 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on resting-state EEG activity across the menstrual cycle. Specifically, it explores whether cyclical hormonal fluctuations of estradiol and progesterone...
PURPOSE: This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on resting-state EEG activity across the menstrual cycle. Specifically, it explores whether cyclical hormonal fluctuations of estradiol and progesterone are associated with electrophysiological changes and evaluates the potential of resting-state EEG as a possible biomarker for neurophysiological changes related to mood, cognition, and emotional well-being across the healthy menstrual cycle. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SpringerLink, and PsycINFO was conducted to January 2025, identifying 23 relevant studies. PRISMA guidelines were followed to extract relevant articles, and we assessed the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach. RESULTS: A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most convergent findings show that the alpha EEG activity in frontal, parietal, and temporal brain areas tends to decrease, and the theta activity tends to increase during the late follicular phase (characterized by high estradiol and low progesterone) compared to the luteal phase (when estradiol level is lower and progesterone is higher). This resting-state electrophysiological activity could reflect greater attentional efficiency, emotional well-being, and a reduction in self-referential processing in the days surrounding ovulation. Findings for delta, beta, and gamma bands remain inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS: This review suggests that resting-state EEG may serve as a potential biomarker of hormone-related changes in brain activity, offering preliminary insights for further research and early detection of hormone-sensitive mood disorders.
Dealing with the impact of pregnancy on the pharmacokinetics of aripiprazole once-monthly.
Schoretsanitis G, Obermann C, Paulzen M
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Jan · PMID 41612074 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
A randomized controlled trial of an electronic patient decision aid (PDA) for decision-making around antidepressant use in pregnancy.
Vigod SN, Dennis CL, Grigoriadis S … +11 more , Metcalfe K, Oberlander TF, Michalowska M, Butt A, Chatterjee A, DeOliveira C, Isaranuwatchai W, Lu Y, Parsons J, Stewart DE, Thorpe KE
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Jan · PMID 41606350 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Decisions about whether to use antidepressant medication in pregnancy can be complex for patients. When decisional conflict is high, this can negatively impact on decision-making and resultant clinical outcomes....
PURPOSE: Decisions about whether to use antidepressant medication in pregnancy can be complex for patients. When decisional conflict is high, this can negatively impact on decision-making and resultant clinical outcomes. We evaluated an electronic patient decision aid (PDA) around antidepressant use in pregnancy for its ability to improve patients’ decision-making experience and the clinical outcomes associated with their decisions. METHODS: This parallel-group trial (2018–2025) randomized preconception and pregnant Canadian participants with depression in a 1:1 ratio to an electronic PDA plus standard resources or standard resource control. Groups were compared on decisional conflict (measured using the Decisional Conflict Scale, DCS) at 4 weeks post-randomization. Those who were pregnant/became pregnant were evaluated for postpartum depression (PPD) at 3 months postpartum using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5. RESULTS: Of n = 462 participants, n = 231 (mean age 32.4 +/- 4.0 years. 48.3% pregnant at baseline) were randomized to the PDA and n = 231 (mean age 32.5 +/- 4.2 years. 48.1% pregnant at baseline) to control. Between baseline and 4-weeks post-randomization, mean (SD) DCS score decreased from 48.3 (13.1) to 33.9 (14.9) in the PDA condition and 47.9 (14.5) to 40.1 (17.0) in controls, an adjusted mean difference of -6.34 (95%CI -8.92 to -3.79). PPD at 3 months postpartum was present in 7 (6.0%) PDA and 15 (12.9%) control participants, an absolute risk difference of -6.9% (95% CI -14.4% to 0.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Compared to standard resources alone, our PDA plus standard resources significantly reduced decisional conflict about the decision of whether or not to use antidepressant medication in pregnancy. PPD rates at 3 months postpartum were non-significantly lower in the PDA group as well. These results support dissemination of the PDA, and the evaluation of its utility with a wider audience.
The price of care: alcohol misuse as a moderator of financial hardship and mental health outcomes of U.S. women caregivers.
DeGrande H, Enrique Espinoza L
Arch Womens Ment Health · 2026 Jan · PMID 41593387 · Full text
PURPOSE: Financial hardship and alcohol misuse are well-established predictors of caregiver mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine if alcohol misuse influenced the associations between financial hardship...
PURPOSE: Financial hardship and alcohol misuse are well-established predictors of caregiver mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine if alcohol misuse influenced the associations between financial hardship and mental health outcomes (depression diagnosis and poor mental health days). METHODS: A retrospective data analysis was conducted from 4,212 U.S. women caregivers utilizing 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System dataset. RESULTS: Alcohol misuse when measured dichotomously was not independently associated with depression diagnosis or poor mental health days. However, more frequent alcohol misuse substantially strengthened the food insecurity–psychological distress relationship among women caregivers. Financial hardship—particularly food insecurity—was strongly associated with depression and more days in the past month with worse mental health, especially among women with lower income, lower educational attainment, and heavier caregiving responsibilities. CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes to international research by demonstrating the value of using frequency-based rather than binary substance use measures, thereby enhancing data comparability across health systems. Findings align with evidence from countries that economic vulnerability and maladaptive coping, such as alcohol misuse, can have negative impacts on caregiver well-being. Trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and culturally sensitive public health strategies could reduce both financial and behavioral risks for substance misuse and mental health symptoms among women caregivers globally.
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