Skip to content

Survey study, 2023

What factors increase the risk of PMS or PMDD?

Negative Rh blood type, earlier age at menstruation, caffeine use more than three times per week, and depression are linked to higher risk of PMS or PMDD.

Early or limited evidence 302 female medical students aged 18 to 45

What they did

Researchers surveyed 302 female medical students aged 18 to 45 and asked about their health, lifestyle, and menstrual history. They then tracked participants for at least two menstrual cycles using validated diagnostic tools to diagnose PMS or PMDD.

What they found

11.6% of students met criteria for PMS (31 students) or PMDD (4 students). Risk factors included negative Rh blood type (4.43 times higher risk), younger age at menstruation, moderate depression or higher, and caffeine use more than three times per week.

What it means for you

Several lifestyle and biological factors may increase PMS or PMDD risk. However, this study only included medical students in one country, and the overall rate of PMS/PMDD was relatively low, so results may not apply to all women.

11.6%

PMS/PMDD prevalence

4.43

Risk ratio for negative Rh blood type

3 times per week

Caffeine threshold linked to increased risk

About the study

Original title
#5 : Associated Factors with Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Among Female Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors
Ngo Dinh Trieu Vy, Linh Phuong Bui, Long Bao Hoang et al.
Journal
Fertility & Reproduction
Year
2023
Study design
Survey study
Participants
302
What was tested
None - observational survey
Open access
Yes

Topics