Case-control study, 2008
Are fluid-regulating systems abnormal in women with PMS?
Yes. Women with PMS have higher levels of fluid-regulating hormones and lower plasma volume shifts during the late luteal phase, suggesting their bodies struggle to maintain normal fluid balance.
What they did
Case-control study comparing 9 women with PMS to 9 healthy women of similar age. Blood samples and body measurements were taken at different times during the menstrual cycle to measure hormones and fluid shifts when standing.
What they found
During the late luteal phase only, women with PMS had ankle swelling and a lower maximum plasma volume shift (11.7 versus 15.6, p=0.004). Their upright plasma renin activity was higher (3.9 versus 1.6 ng/mL per hour, p=0.015). Their upright aldosterone was also higher (208 versus 102 pg/mL, p=0.03).
What it means for you
The hormones that control fluid balance appear to be abnormally activated in PMS during the late luteal phase, which may explain water retention and bloating. However, the study was very small, limiting confidence in the findings.
11.7 vs 15.6
Plasma volume shift in PMS vs controls
3.9 vs 1.6
Upright plasma renin activity (ng/mL per hour)
208 vs 102
Upright aldosterone (pg/mL)
About the study
- Original title
- Hormonal and volume dysregulation in women with premenstrual syndrome
- Authors
- Rosenfeld R, Livne D, Nevo O et al.
- Journal
- Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)
- Year
- 2008
- Study design
- Case-control study
- What was tested
- None - observational study
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1161/hypertensionaha.107.107136