Survey study, 2006
How common is premenstrual syndrome and what factors put women at higher risk?
About 25% of women have PMS by objective measure, though 60% report having it. Younger, more educated, economically better-off women and those not using contraceptives had higher rates.
What they did
Cross-sectional population-based study. 1,395 women aged 15-49 in Southern Brazil (2003) completed questionnaires. PMS was defined by a score based on five symptoms that interfered with daily life, work, or school. Researchers compared the objective score with what women reported about themselves and identified risk factors.
What they found
Objective PMS prevalence was 25.2% (95% CI: 22.5-27.9). Self-reported prevalence was 60.3% (95% CI: 57.4-63.3). Main symptoms were irritability, abdominal discomfort, nervousness, headache, fatigue, and breast pain (all over 50% prevalence). Higher risk in women under 30, with better schooling, higher socioeconomic level, white skin color, using psychotropic drugs, or not using hormonal contraceptives. The test had 94% sensitivity, 51% specificity, and 62% accuracy.
What it means for you
About 1 in 4 women have PMS that impacts their daily life. Women perceive it as more common than objective measures show. Younger, more educated, and economically better-off women are more affected. Not using contraceptives is linked to higher rates.
1,395
women in study
25.2%
with PMS by objective score (95% CI 22.5-27.9)
60.3%
self-reported PMS (95% CI 57.4-63.3)
About the study
- Original title
- [Population study of premenstrual syndrome]
- Authors
- Silva CM, Gigante DP, Carret ML et al.
- Journal
- Revista de saude publica
- Year
- 2006
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 1,395
- What was tested
- None - observational study
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1590/s0034-89102006000100009
Topics
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