The relationship between menstruation and psychiatric admissions

Abstract

AbstractObjective: To determine whether the previously reported relationship between menstruation and emergency psychiatric admissions still pertains.Method: All females admitted on an emergency basis to a general psychiatric unit of a DGH, were interviewed and data regarding menstrual function was collected on those fitting the inclusion criteria who consented to inclusion in the study.Results: Ninety three people were included in the study, of whom significantly more were admitted in the late luteal and menstrual phases of the cycle. Symptoms suggestive of premenstrual syndrome were significantly commoner in those admitted in the late luteal and menstrual phases.Conclusions: The findings suggest that the premenstrual syndrome is either a risk factor for psychiatric admission or is important in determining the time of admission. Adequate detection and treatment of premenstrual syndrome, could in theory, reduce some psychiatric admissions. The methodology and limitations of the study are discussed.