Premenstrual Symptomatology, Alcohol Consumption, and Family History of Alcoholism in Women With Premenstrual Syndrome

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship among family history of alcoholism (FH), premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, and alcohol consumption in women with a PMS diagnosis. Participants (N = 46) were predominantly white (73%) women, of whom 17 (37%) reported multigenerational alcoholism on the paternal side (FH positive [FH+]) using the Family Alcohol and Drug Survey. Subjects recorded alcohol consumption and PMS symptoms using a daily record form for 3 consecutive months. Demographics and alcohol consumption during the follicular phase (FOL) and premenstrual phase (PREM) of the menstrual cycle did not differ by FH; however, change in drinking from FOL to PREM was greater in FH+ (mean change = 2.78 drinks/week) versus FH negative (FH-; mean change = -0.72 drinks/week) women. During PREM, FH- women reported more PMS symptomatology compared with FH+ women, and alcohol consumption during PREM was positively correlated with ratings of bloating, craving for alcohol, craving for food, and low energy in FH- but not FH+ women. Although FH+ women increased their drinking premenstrually, such use was unrelated to PMS symptom severity.