Introduction
The premenstrual syndrome is a periodic symptom that occurs shortly before the onset of menstruation. These symptoms can consist of many different parts and almost always have a psychological component. For many women, this manifests itself in a depressed mood and can even lead to depression. Here it is important to distinguish whether the woman suffers from depression or whether it is caused by the premenstrual syndrome alone. The treatment of depression in premenstrual syndrome is a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
The causes
In the female cycle there are strong hormonal fluctuations. Hormones, including the fluctuating sex hormones, have an influence throughout the body and also have a direct effect on the psyche. This can lead to a depressive mood completely independently of other illnesses or, in the case of basically existing depression, can trigger or intensify a depressive episode. Especially women who are under great stress at work or at home tend to get depressive moods within their cycle. These can also occur without other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Associated symptoms
The premenstrual syndrome is a combination of up to 30 different symptoms, all of which can also be combined with depression. Abdominal pain, flatulence, loss of appetite or attacks of hunger are among the physical symptoms reported by a particularly large number of sufferers. Acne and skin impurities are also a common symptom.
Many affected women also suffer from water retention in the whole body. The hands, feet and breasts are particularly affected. Since this is also visible, it is a psychologically problematic symptom.
However, the premenstrual syndrome itself can also lead to a variety of psychological complaints in addition to depression. These include anxiety, sleep disorders, concentration problems, irritability and aggressiveness as well as mood swings. Not all affected women develop all symptoms, but the symptoms can also occur in isolation.
The severity of the symptoms also varies from individual to individual. If the psychological symptoms predominate and severe depression is present, gynecologists refer to it as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also known as PMDS. This particularly severe form of premenstrual syndrome affects less than five percent of affected women.