Survey study, 2003

Does crying actually increase before menstruation?

Women reported more crying before their period across 33 countries, but when women kept actual diaries of their crying, no real increase appeared in any menstrual phase. The belief may matter more than the actual change.

Early or limited evidence 2447 women across 33 countries (retrospective survey); 82 Dutch students (diary study)

What they did

First, researchers asked 2447 women from 33 countries whether they cried more before their period. Second, 82 Dutch women kept detailed diaries of their actual crying episodes and mood for two menstrual cycles.

What they found

In the survey, women reported increased crying before menstruation, with large differences across countries. The pattern was similar for women taking oral contraceptives. However, in the diary study, women did not actually cry more in any menstrual phase, even though their moods changed significantly.

What it means for you

The common belief that women cry more premenstrually may be more important than the actual change. Your mood does shift, but the crying may not follow that cycle. This suggests cultural beliefs shape how we remember or interpret our symptoms.

2447

Women in survey

Countries included

Women who kept diaries

About the study

Original title: Self-reported crying during the menstrual cycle: sign of discomfort and emotional turmoil or erroneous beliefs?
Authors: van Tilburg MA, Becht MC, Vingerhoets AJ
Journal: Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology
Year: 2003
Study design: Survey study
Participants: 2,447
What was tested: Survey questions and menstrual cycle diaries of crying and mood
Open access: Yes
Read the paper: doi.org/10.3109/01674820309074689

Topics

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)Menstrual cycle and mood Oral contraceptives and drospirenone Stigma, attitudes and culture

Survey study, 2023

Is PMDD diagnosis associated with more severe depression and anxiety and lower well-being?

Survey study, 2022

Do female athletes get enough knowledge and support about their period?

Case-control study, 2026

Do women with PMS handle emotions differently at different times of the cycle?

Systematic review, 2024

What are the best treatments for PMDD and PMS?

Systematic review, 2023

What hormonal treatments have been tested for PMDD, menstrual migraine, and catamenial epilepsy?