Iraqi Postgraduate Medical Journal

Abstract

ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND:
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a somatopsychic illness triggered by changing levels of sex steroids that accompany an ovulatory menstrual cycle. It affects about 3% to 8% of women in their reproductive years. The symptoms of this disorder are primarily affective. The disturbance markedly interferes with work, school or with usual social activities and relationships with others.
OBJECTIVE:
Are to determine the prevalence and the sociodemographic factors in relation to PMDD and to find out the characteristic features of premenstrual symptoms and their impact on daily living.
METHOD:
145 women aged between 18 and 55 years with regular menstrual cycles who met the diagnostic criteria of PMDD out of 1792, were assessed regarding their premenstrual symptoms using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST). The study was conducted in 1st August 2009 until 31thDecember 2009.
RESULTS:
The study revealed that 8.1% of women met the diagnostic criteria of PMDD. It was found more common among younger females 36.5% (18-25years of age), the majority of them were married (71%).
CONCLUSION:
PMDD is relatively common in women especially younger age group