Survey study, 2021
Does PMS affect sexual function during the menstrual cycle?
No, PMS does not affect sexual function. Sexual function was worse during the luteal phase regardless of whether women had PMS.
What they did
Cross-sectional survey using the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire during the luteal phase (before period) and follicular phase (after period). PMS was diagnosed using two screening tools.
What they found
There was no difference in sexual function between women with and without PMS in either cycle phase. Sexual function scores were significantly worse during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase.
What it means for you
PMS does not harm sexual function. However, the luteal phase itself naturally reduces sexual function in all women regardless of PMS. This is a single snapshot study so results may not persist over longer periods.
2
menstrual cycle phases compared
About the study
- Original title
- Premenstrual Syndrome and Female Sexual Function
- Authors
- Conzatti M, Maciel RF, Perez AV et al.
- Journal
- Journal of sex & marital therapy
- Year
- 2021
- Study design
- Survey study
- What was tested
- None
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/0092623x.2020.1856988
Topics
Related studies
Systematic review, 2024
Do SSRI antidepressants help treat PMS and PMDD?
Randomised trial, 2008
Does the antidepressant escitalopram taken only during the luteal phase reduce PMDD symptoms?
Randomised trial, 2005
Does fluoxetine improve sexual drive and desire in women with PMDD?
Cohort study, 2004
Do women with PMS have worse menopausal symptoms?
Randomised trial, 2003
Do SSRIs (antidepressants) help PMDD?
Randomised trial, 1988
Does dydrogesterone help premenstrual symptoms in real-world practice?