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Study, 2011

Are oxidative stress levels different in women with PMS?

On day 21 of the cycle (just before the period), women with PMS had higher oxidative stress markers and lower antioxidant protection compared to women without PMS. On day 3, there were no differences.

Early or limited evidence 20 women with PMS and 21 women without PMS

What they did

Researchers measured blood chemicals related to oxidative stress in 20 women with PMS and 21 women without PMS on two different days of the cycle: day 3 and day 21.

What they found

On day 21, lipid hydroperoxide levels were increased and total antioxidant capacity was decreased in the PMS group. On day 3 and for most other measurements, there were no differences between groups.

What it means for you

This suggests oxidative stress might play a role in PMS symptoms, particularly before the period. However, this was a small study measuring only specific chemicals, so it is unclear whether oxidative stress causes PMS or results from it. More research would help.

20

women with PMS

21

women without PMS

2

measurement days (day 3 and day 21 of cycle)

About the study

Original title
Oxidant/antioxidant status in premenstrual syndrome
Authors
Duvan CI, Cumaoglu A, Turhan NO et al.
Journal
Archives of gynecology and obstetrics
Year
2011
Study design
Study
Participants
21

Topics