Study, 1996
Are smoking withdrawal and premenstrual symptoms connected to the menstrual cycle?
Yes. Smoking withdrawal symptoms and premenstrual symptoms are both higher during the late luteal phase (just before the period). Symptoms are lower during the follicular phase (right after the period).
What they did
32 women aged 18-40 who smoked were followed for about two menstrual cycles. Researchers measured premenstrual symptoms, smoking withdrawal symptoms, and food intake during three cycle phases: follicular, luteal, and late luteal. They verified cycle phases using hormone measurements.
What they found
Both premenstrual and withdrawal symptoms were higher in the late luteal phase. Women reported higher craving, irritability, restlessness, increased appetite, and depressed mood during this phase compared to other times. Food intake did not vary by cycle phase. Women believed they smoked more and ate more during the late luteal phase, but actual measurements did not confirm this. Overall symptomatology was lower during the follicular phase.
What it means for you
For women who smoke, premenstrual symptoms and smoking withdrawal happen at the same time, making quitting harder before the period. The follicular phase might be a better time to quit because symptoms are lower then. One limitation is that this is a small study of smokers only, so results may not apply to non-smokers.
32
women studied
2
menstrual cycles monitored (average)
18-40
age range
About the study
- Original title
- Symptomatology and energy intake during the menstrual cycle in smoking women
- Authors
- Allen SS, Hatsukami D, Christianson D et al.
- Journal
- Journal of substance abuse
- Year
- 1996
- Study design
- Study
- What was tested
- Monitoring of premenstrual symptoms, smoking withdrawal, and food intake across different menstrual cycle phases
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/s0899-3289(96)90170-4
Topics
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