Coping Mechanisms and Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome and Dysphoric Disorder
Overview
This study investigates the severity of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women with menstrual migraine (MM) compared to those without. It highlights the impact of coping strategies on headache severity, revealing that maladaptive strategies correlate with increased headache burden.
Background
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects a significant portion of menstruating women, with severe cases leading to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Understanding the relationship between PMS, PMDD, and menstrual migraine is crucial for developing effective management strategies. This study addresses a gap in research regarding coping mechanisms and their influence on headache severity in women experiencing menstrual migraine.
Data Highlights
Group
PSST Score
HIT-6 Score
PMDD Diagnosis
Menstrual Migraine (MM)
Higher
Higher
5.6%
Non-Menstrual Migraine
Lower
Lower
1.9%
Key Findings
Women with MM had significantly higher PSST and HIT-6 scores compared to non-MM women (p = 0.001, 0.002).
PMDD was diagnosed in 5.6% of women with MM versus 1.9% in non-MM (p = 0.06).
Each PMDD diagnosis was associated with an increase of 3.113 points in HIT-6 scores (95%CI: 0.607–5.915, p = 0.016).
Lower awareness and acceptance coping scores were linked to increased headache burden (p ≤ 0.001).
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should assess coping strategies in women with menstrual migraine, as maladaptive strategies may exacerbate headache severity. Identifying and promoting effective coping mechanisms could improve patient outcomes and reduce the perceived headache burden.
Conclusion
The study underscores the importance of addressing coping strategies in women with menstrual migraine, particularly those with PMDD, to mitigate headache severity and enhance quality of life.
by Alshimaa S. Othman, Mona Hussein, Alaa Elmazny, Salsabil Abo Al-Azayem, Azza Elashiry, Mennat-Allah Tarek, Heba Qassim Shamardal, Sara El-Sayed Abd El-Ghani, Mohamed Wagdy, Eman Hany Elsebaie, Doaa Lotfy Abd El Baky, Rehab Magdy
