---
title: Are specific genetic variations linked to PMS and PMDD? | Niyora
description: Yes, specific genetic variations in the estrogen receptor 1 gene were linked to different PMS symptoms like anxiety and sleep problems, suggesting genetics ma
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/genetic-contributions-to-premenstrual-symptoms-revisiting-the-role-of-the-esr1-2025/
---

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- Are specific genetic variations linked to PMS and PMDD?

Survey study, 2025

# Are specific genetic variations linked to PMS and PMDD?

Yes, specific genetic variations in the estrogen receptor 1 gene were linked to different PMS symptoms like anxiety and sleep problems, suggesting genetics may affect how sensitive women are to hormones. Sample size is not provided in the abstract.

 Early or limited evidence

Women with premenstrual symptoms

## What they did

Cross-sectional study examining six genetic variations (SNPs) in the ESR1 gene in women with premenstrual symptoms. Researchers looked at associations between these genetic variations and symptom severity, and interactions between the variations.

## What they found

Specific genetic variations were linked to distinct symptom profiles including anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. Interactions between genetic variations revealed both risk-enhancing and protective effects. Findings suggest premenstrual symptoms may stem from genotype-linked reduced sensitivity to ovarian hormones.

## What it means for you

Genetics may influence which PMS symptoms a woman experiences and their severity by affecting how her body responds to hormones. The study does not provide sample size in the abstract, limiting our understanding of how reliable these findings are.

6

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) studied

3

Symptom types linked to genetic variants

ESR1

Gene investigated

## About the study

Original title Genetic contributions to premenstrual symptoms: revisiting the role of the ESR1 gene Authors Lahnsteiner A, Hidalgo-Lopez E, Noachtar I et al. Journal medRxiv Year 2025 Study design Survey study What was tested None Open access Yes Read the paper [doi.org/10.1101/2025.01.13.25320449](https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.01.13.25320449)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pmdd/)[Menstrual cycle and mood](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-cycle-mood/)[Low mood and depression](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-depression-mood/)[Anxiety and tension](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-anxiety/)

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