Review, 2011
What are PMS and PMDD, and how common are they?
PMS affects 20-32% of women before menopause with moderate mood and physical symptoms. PMDD is more severe and affects 3-8% of women, causing significant problems at work or socially.
What they did
This is a review article that summarizes what is known about PMS and PMDD, including their definitions, how common they are, possible causes, and treatments.
What they found
PMS affects 20-32% of premenopausal women. PMDD affects 3-8% and causes severe dysfunction in work and social life. Possible causes include sensitivity to normal hormone changes and serotonin abnormalities. Calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6 have limited evidence. Serotonin antidepressants are first-line therapy.
What it means for you
PMDD is much rarer than PMS but much more disabling. Serotonin antidepressants are the most evidence-based treatment. The evidence for supplements is weak.
20-32%
premenopausal women with PMS
3-8%
premenopausal women with PMDD
About the study
- Original title
- Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Authors
- Biggs WS, Demuth RH
- Journal
- American family physician
- Year
- 2011
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- Various treatments including vitamin supplements and antidepressants
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1891/9780826159311.0143
Topics
Related studies
Review, 2016
How common are PMS and PMDD, and what are the best treatments?
Cohort study, 2010
How do anxiety disorders differ across different life stages?
Review, 2017
What causes PMDD and what are the best treatments?
Survey study, 2026
What are the causes, diagnosis, and treatments for PMS and PMDD?
Survey study, 2012
What non-hormonal medications and therapies help severe PMS and PMDD?
Review, 2019
What causes PMDD and which treatments actually help?