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Survey study, 2019

Can a skin test detect sex hormone sensitivity and help treat PMS?

According to this small study of 35 women with PMS, yes. Skin testing showed a positive correlation between PMS severity and hormone sensitivity, and desensitization treatment led to significant improvement. This is very early research on a novel technique.

Early or limited evidence 35 women with confirmed PMS diagnosis

What they did

Experimental study of 35 women with confirmed PMS. Researchers gave intradermal injections of four sex hormones (progesterone, estradiol, estrone, and estriol) to test skin reaction. Based on reactions, women received either desensitization injections or placebo. Symptom severity was tracked.

What they found

There was a positive correlation between PMS severity and skin sensitivity to sex hormones. Desensitization treatment led to significant improvement in PMS symptom severity.

What it means for you

Some women may have a sensitivity to their own hormones that drives PMS, similar to an allergic reaction. Desensitization treatment showed promise. However, this is very early research on a very small group with a technique not yet standard.

35

women with PMS

4

hormones tested

About the study

Original title
Safety and value of skin test to sex hormones and sex hormone sensitivity desensitization in women with premenstrual syndrome
Authors
Itsekson AM, Yonit B, Ze'ev IH et al.
Journal
The World Allergy Organization journal
Year
2019
Study design
Survey study
Participants
35
What was tested
Skin testing with four sex hormones and desensitization injections or placebo.
Open access
Yes

Topics