Skip to content

Case-control study, 1988

Can women with PMS read facial expressions during their menstrual cycle?

Women with PMS had significantly impaired ability to interpret facial expressions during the premenstrual phase compared to healthy women.

Early or limited evidence 30 white, middle-class women (15 with PMS, 15 controls)

What they did

The researchers tested 30 women (15 with PMS and 15 age-matched controls) who were shown videotapes of facial expressions. They compared the PMS women's responses before and after their period.

What they found

Interpretive ability fluctuated during the menstrual cycle and was significantly impaired during the premenstrual phase in women with PMS compared to controls.

What it means for you

Women with PMS may have trouble reading facial expressions during their premenstrual phase, which could affect social interactions. The study was small and only included white, middle-class women, so results may not apply to all groups.

30

women studied

15

women with PMS

15

control women

About the study

Original title
Impaired reception of nonverbal cues in women with premenstrual tension syndrome
Authors
Giannini AJ, Sorger LG, Martin DM et al.
Journal
The Journal of psychology
Year
1988
Study design
Case-control study
Participants
15

Topics