Role of calcium metabolism in premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome has been the subject of many myths and misconceptions over the centuries. It is a very common problem affecting millions of young women during their reproductive lives and is characterized by numerous recurrent, cyclical emotional and physical symptoms during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The etiology of this disorder has remained poorly understood until only recently. Alterations in calcium homeostasis have long been associated with many affective disorders. Cyclical fluctuations of the ovarian steroid hormones across the menstrual cycle influence calcium metabolism, affect intestinal calcium absorption and modulate 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D synthesis. Evidence now strongly suggests that abnormalities in calcium and vitamin D metabolism, specifically calcium and vitamin D deficiency, are responsible for these luteal-phase symptoms. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may offer a simple solution to millions of women affected with premenstrual syndrome.