Survey study, 2002
Does the premenstrual period trigger multiple sclerosis flare-ups in women?
In about 42% of women with MS, flare-ups were more likely during the premenstrual phase, suggesting it may be a trigger for some women. The evidence is not definitive as this was a small observational study.
What they did
Cross-sectional study of 56 women with relapsing MS and regular periods. They reviewed 2 years of medical records and questionnaires about when their flare-ups occurred.
What they found
42% had flare-ups starting in the premenstrual phase. Within this group, 45% had all their flare-ups during the premenstrual phase. Birth control pills did not prevent this pattern, and there was no relationship to PMS itself.
What it means for you
The premenstrual period may trigger MS flare-ups in some women. A major limitation is the small sample size and that they only looked back at past records instead of following women forward.
42%
Had flare-ups in premenstrual phase
45%
Had all flare-ups in premenstrual phase
56
Women with MS studied
About the study
- Original title
- The premenstrual period and exacerbations in multiple sclerosis
- Authors
- Zorgdrager A, De Keyser J
- Journal
- European neurology
- Year
- 2002
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 56
- What was tested
- None. Observational study of medical records and questionnaires.
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1159/000066166
Topics
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