Study, 1977
What causes premenstrual tension?
Researchers believe several hormone-related factors are involved, though the exact cause is still uncertain. These include progesterone deficiency in about 30% of women and changes in brain chemicals.
What they did
Researchers reviewed evidence about hormonal and brain chemistry factors in PMS to understand the causes of the condition.
What they found
Evidence points to progesterone deficiency in approximately 30% of PMS women during the second half of the cycle. Changes in prolactin and possibly estradiol appear involved. Problems with brain amine metabolism may also play a role, possibly related to pyridoxine (vitamin B6) levels. These factors may be connected to each other.
What it means for you
Multiple factors likely contribute to PMS rather than one single cause. Hormone imbalances and brain chemistry are both involved, and they may be connected. The exact roles of each factor remain unclear.
~30%
of women with progesterone deficiency
About the study
- Original title
- The possible mechanisms causing the premenstrual tension syndrome
- Authors
- M. G. Brush
- Journal
- Current Medical Research and Opinion
- Year
- 1977
- Study design
- Study
- What was tested
- None (discussion of mechanisms)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1185/03007997709115295
Topics
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