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Case-control study, 2024

Do women with PMDD have more attention and memory problems than other women?

Yes, women with PMDD show greater increases in memory and attention problems as they progress through their menstrual cycle toward their period. Women with PMDD are also more likely to have ADHD.

Moderate study design 58 women with PMDD and 50 controls

What they did

A case-control study of 58 women with PMDD and 50 controls. Researchers measured attention, memory, and impulsivity at three phases of the menstrual cycle using standard tests.

What they found

Women with PMDD showed greater increases in prospective memory problems and difficulty maintaining focused attention from pre-ovulatory to late luteal phase compared to controls. They had higher dysfunctional impulsivity during the late luteal phase. A significant association was found between ADHD and PMDD.

What it means for you

Attention and memory problems are more common in women with PMDD and worsen as the cycle progresses toward menstruation. Women with PMDD are more likely to also have ADHD. The study measured at specific cycle points only, so daily variations are not captured.

58

women with PMDD

50

controls

About the study

Original title
Comorbid Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors
Lin PC, Long CY, Ko CH et al.
Journal
Journal of women's health (2002)
Year
2024
Study design
Case-control study
Participants
58

Topics