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Survey study, 2006

Does the menstrual cycle affect mood disorders?

Some women with mood disorders may experience worsening symptoms during the premenstrual period. Evidence is limited and study methods are inconsistent across available research.

Early or limited evidence Literature review (not an original study of patients)

What they did

Literature review of studies from 1955 to 2005 on the relationship between menstrual cycle, mood disorders, and suicide.

What they found

Reports showed higher psychiatric hospital admissions during the premenstrual period and suicide attempts during specific menstrual cycle phases in women of reproductive age with mental disorders. Limited data on bipolar disorder direction. Findings were inconsistent across studies.

What it means for you

There may be a link between menstrual cycle and mood exacerbation in some women, especially the premenstrual period for depression. However, existing studies are small, lack prospective design, and use unreliable methods to track cycle phases. Much better research is needed.

About the study

Original title
[Does menstrual cycle affect mood disorders?]
Authors
Akdeniz F, Karadağ F
Journal
Turk psikiyatri dergisi = Turkish journal of psychiatry
Year
2006
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
None (literature review only)

Topics