---
title: Does premenstrual syndrome really exist and how should doctors approach it?
description: PMS is recognized as a real health issue, but disagreement exists about its definition and causes. This confusion has led to inconsistent medical treatment an
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/premenstrual-syndrome-a-time-for-introspection-1986/
---

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- Does premenstrual syndrome really exist and how should doctors approach it?

Study, 1986

# Does premenstrual syndrome really exist and how should doctors approach it?

PMS is recognized as a real health issue, but disagreement exists about its definition and causes. This confusion has led to inconsistent medical treatment and skepticism from some doctors.

 Early or limited evidence

This is a commentary on PMS in medical practice generally, not a study of specific people

## What they did

This is a commentary on the state of medical and scientific knowledge about PMS, examining definitions, research gaps, and how doctors treat the condition.

## What they found

There is heated debate about whether PMS actually exists. Imprecise definitions have led doctors to apply PMS characteristics to all women rather than to a specific group. There is a shortage of reliable scientific information about PMS, leading to inconsistent and often ineffective medical treatment. Some doctors are skeptical about PMS.

## What it means for you

PMS is being recognized as an important health issue but doctors and researchers need clearer definitions and better evidence about what causes it and how to treat it. The main limit is this is commentary, not original research, and does not present new scientific findings.

## About the study

Original title Premenstrual syndrome: a time for introspection Authors Reid RL Journal American journal of obstetrics and gynecology Year 1986 Study design Study Read the paper [doi.org/10.1016/0002-9378(86)90319-4](https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9378(86)90319-4)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)

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