--- title: How are PMS and stress connected, and what is the role of stress dysfunction in PMS? description: This review proposes that abnormal stress coping and stress reactivity (stress dysfunction) are key factors linking PMS and stress, and that they may share si url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/psychological-stress-dysfunction-in-women-with-premenstrual-syndrome-2024/ --- - [Niyora](https://niyora.com/) - [Research](https://niyora.com/research/) - [Library](https://niyora.com/research/library/) - How are PMS and stress connected, and what is the role of stress dysfunction in PMS? Survey study, 2024 # How are PMS and stress connected, and what is the role of stress dysfunction in PMS? This review proposes that abnormal stress coping and stress reactivity (stress dysfunction) are key factors linking PMS and stress, and that they may share similar brain and hormone pathways. However, this is a theoretical framework, not proven findings from patient studies. Early or limited evidence Literature review - not a study of actual women ## What they did Literature review examining the relationship between PMS and stress through four main perspectives: shared hormone and brain pathways, coexistence of PMS and stress disorders, PMS acting as a stressor itself, and potential use of biofeedback training for both conditions. ## What they found The review proposes that women with PMS have abnormal patterns of coping with and reacting to stress. PMS and stress share similar hormone and brain system pathways. PMS may itself act as a stressor, creating a negative feedback loop that worsens symptoms. The review suggests biofeedback training used for stress disorders may also help treat PMS. ## What it means for you This is a theoretical framework for understanding why stress and PMS are linked, not research proving these connections exist. The proposals need to be tested in studies with actual patients to know if they are correct. Understanding stress and PMS interactions may eventually lead to better treatments. 4 main perspectives on PMS-stress connection ## About the study Original title Psychological stress dysfunction in women with premenstrual syndrome Authors Liu Q, Lin Y, Zhang W Journal Heliyon Year 2024 Study design Survey study What was tested None - theoretical review of existing literature Open access Yes Read the paper [doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40233](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40233) Original abstract Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) encompasses a range of emotional, physiological, and behavioral symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (MC) and resolve with the onset of menstruation. These symptoms, which can include fatigue, physical pain, anxiety, irritability, and depression, significantly affect women's daily lives and overall well-being. In severe cases, PMS can progress to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), profoundly impairing quality of life. Despite its prevalence, the neural mechanisms underlying PMS-particularly those related to stress-are not fully understood.This review aims to explore the complex interactions between PMS and stress, with a focus on the hormonal pathways involved. We propose that abnormal stress coping styles and stress reactivity patterns, collectively referred to as stress dysfunction, are crucial factors influencing women's vulnerability to PMS. We examine the relationship between PMS and stress from four perspectives: (1) PMS shares neuroendocrine metabolic circuits based on hormonal fluctuations with stress reactivity systems; (2) there is comorbidity between PMS and stress-related disorders; (3) PMS itself may act as a stressor, potentially creating a negative feedback loop that exacerbates symptoms; and (4) biofeedback training used for stress disorders may be effective in treating PMS. By providing a detailed analysis of stress-related hormonal changes and their effects on PMS, this review offers new insights into the physiological processes underlying PMS. Understanding these interactions may inform the development of targeted interventions and improve the quality of life for women affected by PMS. Reproduced under CC-BY. ## Topics [Menstrual cycle and mood](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-cycle-mood/)[Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pmdd/)[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Quality of life and daily functioning](https://niyora.com/research/topics/life-area-quality-of-life/)[Low mood and depression](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-depression-mood/)[Stress](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-stress/) Research tells you what helps on average. Niyora helps on the day it hits. Calm down, see it another way, and decide what to say, with a PMS and PMDD app built by a doctor. ## Related studies Cohort study, 2022 What are PMS and PMDD and how should they be diagnosed and treated? Survey study, 2022 What causes PMS and PMDD and what new treatments are being studied? Survey study, 2020 What symptoms best predict whether PMDD will seriously affect daily life? Randomised trial, 2019 Does online cognitive behavioral therapy help women with PMDD? Systematic review, 2014 Do acupuncture and herbal medicine help PMS or PMDD symptoms? Review, 2013 What treatments work best for PMDD? Ask AI about this page Copy prompt ChatGPT ↗ Claude ↗ Perplexity ↗ Google AI Mode ↗ Grok ↗