Review, 2003
What biological mechanisms cause premenstrual syndromes?
The review suggests premenstrual syndromes result from altered responses of multiple body systems to menstrual cycle hormone changes, combined with individual vulnerability. No single cause is identified.
What they did
Review of research proposing biological mechanisms underlying menstrually related symptoms and disorders, examining evidence about gonadal hormones, neurotransmitters, and neurohormonal systems.
What they found
Multiple body systems are involved: gonadal hormones and their metabolites interact with neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, and with neurohormonal systems like cholecystokinin and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone. Altered responses of these systems to menstrual cycle hormone changes, and increased sensitivity to changes in gonadal hormones, may contribute to symptoms in vulnerable women. Disrupted homeostasis and deficient adaptation may be core underlying mechanisms.
What it means for you
Premenstrual syndromes are complex, involving multiple body systems rather than a single hormone or chemical. This suggests different women may benefit from different treatments. Future research should identify specific subtypes, genetic factors, and how vulnerability changes over a woman's lifetime.
About the study
- Original title
- The etiology, biology, and evolving pathology of premenstrual syndromes
- Authors
- Halbreich U
- Journal
- Psychoneuroendocrinology
- Year
- 2003
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- None (review article)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/s0306-4530(03)00097-0