Study Finds Bidirectional Link Between Premenstrual Disorders and Psychiatric Conditions

People with conditions like premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual dysphoric disorder are more likely to suffer from psychiatric disorders and vice versa, according to a study published Friday in JAMA Network Open. Researchers analyzed data from a Swedish registry of more than 3.6 million women from 2001 through 2022.

They matched the records of those with premenstrual disorders to their unaffected biological sisters as well as 10 more unaffected controls. About 105,000 people had premenstrual disorder diagnoses. Forty-eight percent of them had a previous psychiatric diagnosis, compared to nearly 30 percent of controls.

The pattern held in the other direction as well. Thirty-seven percent of those with psychiatric diagnoses later received a premenstrual disorder diagnosis, versus 21 percent of those without such diagnoses.

The risk pattern was strongest for depression and anxiety. It was also present for ADHD, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. Previous research has hinted at these associations. Those earlier studies were often small and had short follow-up periods.

It is possible that both genetics and the biological mechanisms around hormones and neurology play a role in these connections. The study authors stated that more research is needed. The findings add context to ongoing discussions about menstrual and mental health.

They come as separate developments unfold at federal agencies overseeing drug regulation and public health policy.