[Incidence and type of premenstrual symptoms in relation to experienced infertility: a comparative study]

Using the symptomatological criteria of "Late Luteal Dysphoric Disorder" according to DSM-III-R, the frequency and type of premenstrual symptoms were investigated in a group of 405 infertile women (participants in an in-vitro-fertilisation programme at the University of Bonn) and a control group of 101 female medical students. 84% of both groups of women reported premenstrual psychological and/or physical changes. 52% of the infertile patients and 42% of the students fulfilled the symptomatological criteria of late luteal dysphoric disorder. Comparing both groups, it was found, that infertile women reported significantly more often mood lability, anger/irritability, anxiety/tension and loss of interest.