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Non-randomised trial, 2012

Do schizophrenia symptoms get worse before menstruation?

Many women with schizophrenia do experience worse symptoms before their period, but no treatment studies have been done so doctors must decide case-by-case how to help.

Early or limited evidence Literature review of women with schizophrenia of reproductive age

What they did

A review of published studies. Researchers searched the medical literature for articles about schizophrenia, psychosis, menstrual changes, and hormones.

What they found

Premenstrual worsening of schizophrenia symptoms is common and distinct from a rare condition called menstrual psychosis. It is unclear whether low estrogen or PMDD causes the worsening. No studies have tested specific treatments.

What it means for you

Doctors should be aware that some women with schizophrenia may have worse psychiatric symptoms before their period and treatment needs to be adjusted for each woman individually. However, this is a review of other studies, not new research, and no treatment approaches have been tested.

0

treatment trials conducted

About the study

Original title
Menstrual exacerbation of schizophrenia symptoms
Authors
Seeman MV
Journal
Acta psychiatrica Scandinavica
Year
2012
Study design
Non-randomised trial
What was tested
None (literature review only)

Topics