---
title: Does the menstrual cycle cause mental health problems? | Niyora
description: The menstrual cycle likely does not cause mental health problems on its own. The authors argue that mood and mental health are affected by a combination of ho
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/the-relationship-between-psychopathology-and-the-menstrual-cycle-1983/
---

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- Does the menstrual cycle cause mental health problems?

Survey study, 1983

# Does the menstrual cycle cause mental health problems?

The menstrual cycle likely does not cause mental health problems on its own. The authors argue that mood and mental health are affected by a combination of hormonal changes, personality, stress, and life circumstances.

 Early or limited evidence

Literature review

## What they did

The authors reviewed published research on psychiatric illness and the menstrual cycle to evaluate the evidence for a causal link.

## What they found

While higher rates of mental health problems occur in women compared to men, the evidence does not support the idea that menstrual cycle hormones alone cause psychiatric illness. The authors propose that hormonal changes interact with personality, social stress, and life circumstances.

## What it means for you

PMS and mood problems are complicated and not caused by hormones alone. This review argues that many factors contribute, not just menstrual cycle changes. However, the review does not present new data to test this idea.

## About the study

Original title The relationship between psychopathology and the menstrual cycle Authors Clare AW Journal Women & health Year 1983 Study design Survey study What was tested None Read the paper [doi.org/10.1300/j013v08n02_07](https://doi.org/10.1300/j013v08n02_07)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Menstrual cycle and mood](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-cycle-mood/)[Borderline personality disorder](https://niyora.com/research/topics/comorbidity-bpd/)[Schizophrenia and psychosis](https://niyora.com/research/topics/comorbidity-psychosis/)[Relationships and partners](https://niyora.com/research/topics/life-area-relationships/)

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## Related studies

Systematic review, 2022

Do mental health disorders get worse during the menstrual cycle?

Study, 2026

What are premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder?

Cohort study, 2023

Does the menstrual cycle affect how often women have suicidal thoughts?

Interview study, 2000

Are depression and personality disorders linked to PMDD?

Survey study, 2005

Are suicidal attempts more likely during certain phases of the menstrual cycle?

Study, 1985

What psychological patterns do women with PMS show?

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