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Survey study, 2005

How does trauma history affect PMDD symptoms and pregnancy?

Women with PMDD who experienced trauma show different body reactions to stress and may experience symptom changes during pregnancy. These findings come from reviewing existing published research rather than new studies.

Early or limited evidence Review of research literature (no specific population studied)

What they did

Review of published research on how trauma and abuse affect women with PMDD and other reproductive conditions, including pregnancy and miscarriage.

What they found

Women with PMDD and a trauma history have different body responses to stress compared to those without trauma. Trauma symptoms may re-emerge during pregnancy. Miscarriage is linked to higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder.

What it means for you

If you have PMDD and a history of trauma or abuse, your symptoms might respond differently to stress and may worsen during pregnancy. Treatment options like counselling and group therapy may help. This is a review of existing research, not a new study.

About the study

Original title
[Trauma & the reproductive lifecycle in women]
Authors
Born L, Phillips SD, Steiner M et al.
Journal
Revista brasileira de psiquiatria (Sao Paulo, Brazil : 1999)
Year
2005
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
None (review article)
Open access
Yes

Topics