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Review, 2015

What do we know about PMS and PMDD and how are they treated?

PMS affects 30 to 40 percent of reproductive-age women and PMDD affects 3 to 8 percent. Serotonergic antidepressants are the most effective treatment, but oral contraceptives, lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and herbal supplements are also available options.

Strong study design Reproductive-age females in general

What they did

This is a literature review that summarizes findings from many studies about PMS and PMDD.

What they found

PMS is characterized by recurrent moderate-to-severe affective, physical, and behavioral symptoms that occur during the luteal phase and disappear within a few days of menstruation. PMDD is a more severe and disabling form. The cause is not fully understood but involves increased sensitivity to normal hormonal changes and neurotransmitter abnormalities. The Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) is the standard diagnostic tool.

What it means for you

This review helps explain that PMS is common and treatable. Clinicians should consider each patient's situation individually when choosing between medication, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle approaches.

30-40%

Prevalence of PMS

3-8%

Prevalence of PMDD

About the study

Original title
Premenstrual syndrome: A mini review
Authors
Ryu A, Kim TH
Journal
Maturitas
Year
2015
Study design
Review
What was tested
Literature review of treatments, not a study of one intervention

Topics