---
title: What causes premenstrual tension? | Niyora
description: Researchers believe several hormone-related factors are involved, though the exact cause is still uncertain. These include progesterone deficiency in about 30
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/the-possible-mechanisms-causing-the-premenstrual-tension-syndrome-1977/
---

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- What causes premenstrual tension?

Study, 1977

# What causes premenstrual tension?

Researchers believe several hormone-related factors are involved, though the exact cause is still uncertain. These include progesterone deficiency in about 30% of women and changes in brain chemicals.

 Early or limited evidence

Women with premenstrual tension (general discussion)

## What they did

Researchers reviewed evidence about hormonal and brain chemistry factors in PMS to understand the causes of the condition.

## What they found

Evidence points to progesterone deficiency in approximately 30% of PMS women during the second half of the cycle. Changes in prolactin and possibly estradiol appear involved. Problems with brain amine metabolism may also play a role, possibly related to pyridoxine (vitamin B6) levels. These factors may be connected to each other.

## What it means for you

Multiple factors likely contribute to PMS rather than one single cause. Hormone imbalances and brain chemistry are both involved, and they may be connected. The exact roles of each factor remain unclear.

~30%

of women with progesterone deficiency

## About the study

Original title The possible mechanisms causing the premenstrual tension syndrome Authors M. G. Brush Journal Current Medical Research and Opinion Year 1977 Study design Study What was tested None (discussion of mechanisms) Read the paper [doi.org/10.1185/03007997709115295](https://doi.org/10.1185/03007997709115295)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Anxiety and tension](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-anxiety/)[Vitamin B6](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-vitamin-b6/)

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

Randomised trial, 1997

Does Vitex agnus castus work better than vitamin B6 for premenstrual tension syndrome?

Review, 2023

Can herbs and supplements help with PMS symptoms?

Randomised trial, 2007

Does bromocriptine or pyridoxine help reduce PMS symptoms?

Randomised trial, 2000

Does magnesium and vitamin B6 together help with anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms?

Randomised trial, 1989

Does vitamin B6 reduce PMS mood symptoms?

Randomised trial, 1987

Does vitamin B6 help premenstrual tension symptoms?

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