psychiatry.org

Regarding Paramenstrual Exacerbation of Mood & Medical Disorders

Leahy suggests a number of helpful strategies for women with PMDD and for women with premenstrual exacerbations, such as calcium and magnesium supplements, exercise, herbal formulations, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and light therapy. Leahy also suggests medication changes could help, such as changes in the dose of oral contraceptives or, for those on medication for an existing mental health condition, altering the dose of medication for a short time before menstruation. The Center for Women’s Mental Health also suggests several lifestyle changes that may help, such as decreasing use of caffeine, sugar and alcohol, getting aerobic exercise and getting enough sleep. Many women may not be aware of the influence of the cycle on their mental health and doctors often don’t ask. Leahy suggests that for women with psychiatric illness, it’s important to thoroughly explore abrupt symptom changes and their timing in relation to their cycles.