Perimenstrual symptoms: time course of symptom intensity in relation to endocrinologically defined segments of the menstrual cycle.

Abstract

This investigation assessed the syndromal nature of menstrual cycle changes in women who experience significant cyclicity of mood by exploring the time course of different symptoms in relation to endocrinologically defined segments of the menstrual cycle. Participants were accepted into the protocol on the basis of a prospectively documented history of perimenstrual mood change. The protocol included completion of the Daily Life Experiences Questionnaire and blood sampling during three menstrual cycles. The syndromal nature of menstrual cycle changes was explored by determining the types of symptoms which fluctuated in relation to five endocrinologically defined segments of the menstrual cycle, and the time course of the symptom changes. The results further document the temporal association between the luteal phase and the onset of perimenstrual symptoms and suggest that the syndromal nature of menstrual cycle-related changes may differ for women who experience different intensities of cyclical mood.