Assessment of anxiety, depression and stress among post-hysterectomy women / postmenopausal women

• Author Details:   
• Jikki Kalaiselvi P S
• Divya Raghavendra Rao1
• Abilashini G D ^*

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Background: Hysterectomy and menopause can significantly impact women's mental health, often leading to anxiety, depression, and stress due to hormonal changes and psychosocial factors.

Aim & Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of anxiety, depression, and stress among postmenopausal and post-hysterectomy women. Examine the relationship of psychological distress with demographic, socioeconomic factors, and time since hysterectomy or menopause on anxiety, depression, and stress levels.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at ACS Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, over 12 months. The study included 100 women aged 40–65 years who were either postmenopausal or post-hysterectomy. Women with psychiatric disorders or chronic diseases were excluded. A structured, validated Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire was used to assess psychological distress. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive and inferential statistical methods including ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and logistic regression.

Results: The mean age of participants was 53.51 years. Anxiety was most commonly moderate (55%), with 30% experiencing mild anxiety. Depression was predominantly mild (81%), and stress was moderate (76%). Younger age, shorter time since menopause or hysterectomy, and lower socioeconomic status were identified as significant predictors of higher anxiety, depression, and stress levels. Anxiety, depression, and stress were most pronounced in women less than one-year post-event.

Conclusion: This study highlights a significant psychological burden on postmenopausal and post-hysterectomy women, particularly in the first few years after these life events. Anxiety, depression, and stress are prevalent in these populations, and factors such as age, time since the event, and socioeconomic status are important predictors. Targeted mental health interventions are needed, especially for women in the early stages of menopause or post-hysterectomy.