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Study, 2018

What different theories explain why PMS happens?

Many theories exist about PMS causes. The most helpful explanations combine biological, psychological, and social factors all working together, rather than single-factor theories.

Early or limited evidence Not applicable - this is a theoretical review, not a study of people

What they did

This paper reviewed and compared different theoretical approaches that have been proposed to explain what causes premenstrual syndrome.

What they found

About 20-50% of women experience PMS. Around 150 different symptoms can be connected to the syndrome. PMS is distinguished from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) by its pattern of symptoms, their severity, and the damage they cause. Complex, multivariate theoretical models are most helpful for understanding PMS causes.

What it means for you

PMS is complex and likely caused by many different factors working together. No single explanation such as hormones alone or psychology alone is probably the full answer. This is a review of existing theories rather than a new study, so it summarizes what experts already believe rather than testing something new.

20-50%

Percentage of women affected by PMS

150

Different symptoms connected with PMS

About the study

Original title
Teorijski pristupi objašnjenju etiologije predmenstrualnog sindroma
Authors
Nataša Šimić, Katija Kalebić
Journal
Papers on Philosophy Psychology Sociology and Pedagogy
Year
2018
Study design
Study
What was tested
Not applicable - theoretical review of existing explanations
Open access
Yes

Topics