---
title: Does experiencing discrimination increase the risk of PMDD? | Niyora
description: Yes, women who experience discrimination were significantly more likely to have PMDD. However, this study shows a link, not proof that discrimination causes P
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/lifetime-discrimination-associated-with-greater-likelihood-of-premenstrual-2011/
---

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- Does experiencing discrimination increase the risk of PMDD?

Survey study, 2011

# Does experiencing discrimination increase the risk of PMDD?

Yes, women who experience discrimination were significantly more likely to have PMDD. However, this study shows a link, not proof that discrimination causes PMDD.

 Early or limited evidence

2,718 Asian, Latina, and Black women aged 18-40

## What they did

Cross-sectional study of 2,718 Asian, Latina, and Black women aged 18-40. Researchers asked about their experiences with discrimination and whether they had PMDD.

## What they found

83% reported experiencing discrimination. For each increase in discrimination frequency, the odds of PMDD went up by 1.08 times. Women reporting gender discrimination were 5.18 times more likely to have PMDD, race discrimination 4.14 times, and other discrimination 6.43 times. Subtle discrimination was more strongly linked to PMDD (odds ratio 1.12) than blatant discrimination (odds ratio 1.04).

## What it means for you

Discrimination is linked to higher rates of PMDD. Reducing discrimination in women's lives might reduce PMDD. This is the first study to show this link. It was cross-sectional so we cannot know if discrimination causes PMDD or if PMDD makes people more aware of discrimination. The study included only Asian, Latina, and Black women.

83%

reported lifetime discrimination

1.08

increased odds of PMDD per unit increase in discrimination frequency

5.18

odds ratio for gender discrimination

## About the study

Original title Lifetime discrimination associated with greater likelihood of premenstrual dysphoric disorder Authors Pilver CE, Desai R, Kasl S et al. Journal Journal of women's health (2002) Year 2011 Study design Survey study What was tested None Open access Yes Read the paper [doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2010.2456](https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2010.2456)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pmdd/)[Low mood and depression](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-depression-mood/)[Schizophrenia and psychosis](https://niyora.com/research/topics/comorbidity-psychosis/)[Legal and forensic](https://niyora.com/research/topics/life-area-legal-crime/)

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