Review, 2010
Does the menstrual cycle make mental and physical health problems worse?
Yes. Many medical and mental health conditions get worse at specific phases of the menstrual cycle, particularly during the luteal phase when premenstrual dysphoric disorder (a severe form of PMS) and depression commonly occur.
What they did
This is a review of research on how the menstrual cycle affects medical and mental health. The authors examined studies on worsening of various conditions during different cycle phases.
What they found
Many common health problems worsen at specific menstrual cycle phases. The menstrual cycle can trigger premenstrual dysphoric disorder and depression, both of which specifically occur during the luteal phase. The cause appears to involve complex interactions between the immune and hormone systems, though the exact cause is unclear.
What it means for you
If you have depression or other health conditions, your symptoms might get worse before your period. Doctors should screen for mental health problems at different cycle phases. Treatment options include antidepressants, therapy, and sometimes hormones.
About the study
- Original title
- Menstrual cycle-related exacerbation of disease
- Authors
- Pinkerton JV, Guico-Pabia CJ, Taylor HS
- Journal
- American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
- Year
- 2010
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- Various treatments for menstrual cycle-related conditions
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2009.07.061
Topics
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