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Evaluating premenstrual symptoms in medical practice
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|April 1, 1985
Summary
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) diagnosis requires tracking symptom changes over two cycles. Emotional symptoms are most common, necessitating careful evaluation to differentiate PMS from other conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Psychiatry
- Women's Health
Background:
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) diagnosis relies on specific criteria.
- Accurate evaluation is crucial for effective treatment.
- Distinguishing PMS from other disorders is a clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare four methods for evaluating PMS symptoms.
- To analyze symptom severity and patterns in diagnosed PMS patients.
- To highlight the need for refined diagnostic approaches for menstrual disorders.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of diagnostic criteria for PMS.
- Comparison of physician interviews, symptom questionnaires, daily ratings, and the Hopkins symptom checklist.
- Analysis of data from 241 patients meeting PMS criteria.
Main Results:
- Premenstrual symptom intensity is often severe, with emotional symptoms predominating.
- A subset of patients experiences moderate symptoms extending into the follicular phase.
- Diagnostic evaluation must differentiate PMS from other physical or psychiatric conditions.
Conclusions:
- Established criteria for PMS diagnosis are essential.
- Emotional symptoms are a key feature of PMS.
- Further research is required to develop a comprehensive classification system for menstrual disorders.