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Survey study, 1991

What is the best treatment for PMS?

No single medication works for everyone. Treatment works best when combined approaches including diet, exercise, stress management, and sometimes medication are matched to each woman's specific symptoms.

Early or limited evidence Review of PMS treatment research

What they did

Critical review of research on PMS treatments and the quality of research methods used in PMS studies, examining drug and non-drug approaches.

What they found

Many medications have been tested but none produce lasting relief for all women. Diet, aerobic exercise, and stress management show promise as non-drug treatments. Treatment is most effective when matched individually to symptoms. Recent research uses stronger methods than older studies, but methodological problems remain.

What it means for you

PMS is complex with multiple causes, so treatment should be tailored to each person. Psychological support is as important as medication. This is a review article summarizing other studies, reflecting both their strengths and limitations.

About the study

Original title
A critical review of methodological issues and approaches to managing premenstrual syndrome
Authors
Carol A. Morse
Journal
Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology
Year
1991
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
Review of treatments (not testing one approach)

Topics