Survey study, 2023
Do psychological patterns change across the menstrual cycle?
This study found certain psychological patterns were lower on day 15 compared to day 1 of the cycle. Anxiety, depression, and stress were linked to more pronounced psychological challenges. However, this was small and done in one country, so findings may not apply broadly.
What they did
Cross-sectional study of 84 female university students in Lebanon. They completed questionnaires on day 1 of their period and again on day 15, answering questions about psychological patterns and symptoms like anxiety, depression, and stress.
What they found
Several psychological patterns showed lower scores on day 15 compared to day 1 (emotional deprivation, social isolation, feeling defective, and negativity). Women with higher anxiety, depression, and stress showed increased psychological challenges. Having monthly income and physical activity were associated with different patterns.
What it means for you
Psychological patterns may shift across the menstrual cycle, and mood and stress levels may make these changes more pronounced. The main limitation is that measurements were only at two time points and the study was in one country, so findings may not apply to all women.
84
Study participants
2
Measurement days (day 1 and day 15 of cycle)
About the study
- Original title
- Correlates and Variation in Early Maladaptive Schema Domains Between Day 1 and Day 15 of Menses Among Lebanese Female University Students
- Authors
- Sanayeh EB, Hallit S, Azzi V et al.
- Journal
- The primary care companion for CNS disorders
- Year
- 2023
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 84
- What was tested
- None (observational study)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.4088/pcc.22m03255
Topics
Related studies
Study, 2026
What are premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder?
Survey study, 2013
Is health anxiety connected to PMS and PMDD?
Randomised trial, 2026
Does Kundalini Reiki help reduce PMS symptoms and improve quality of life?
Survey study, 2026
What dietary, lifestyle, and psychological factors are associated with PMS in young women?
Survey study, 2026
Does exercise help college women with period problems and mental health?
Survey study, 2026
What factors affect PMS in university students and does it impact schoolwork?