Psychiatric Illness Across the Menstrual Cycle

About this Research Topic

Background

Menstrual cycle-related exacerbations of psychiatric illnesses and premenstrual disorders are prevalent and associated with significant morbidity. While menstrual cycle-related exacerbations are common and for certain disorders have been associated with severity and with poorer treatment response, the field remains largely understudied. We currently know little about the specific patterns of exacerbation for most psychiatric illnesses and how to treat them. Premenstrual disorders have gained more attention in research; however, many women do not respond to the currently available treatments, and novel pharmacotherapies are needed. This Research Topic aims to further our knowledge and recognition of both menstrual cycle-related exacerbations and of psychiatric illnesses limited to certain phases of the menstrual cycle. Research is needed on prevalence, patterns across the menstrual cycle, and the characteristics, pathophysiology, and treatment of these menstrual cycle-related conditions.

The goal of this Research Topic is to educate clinicians and researchers about exacerbations of psychiatric illnesses across the menstrual cycle, such as premenstrual exacerbation (PME) and exacerbations occurring at other times of the menstrual cycle, as well as psychiatric illnesses limited to certain periods of the menstrual cycle, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)/premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual psychosis. Menstrual cycle-related psychiatric illnesses are prevalent and associated with significant morbidity. By further understanding their patterns across the menstrual cycle, their etiologies, and evidence-based treatments, clinicians can better recognize and treat these illnesses and lessen the burden of illness for those who suffer.

The scope of this Research Topic will include Original Research, Reviews, and Expert opinions related to the prevalence, characteristics, pathophysiology, and treatment of menstrual cycle-related psychiatric illnesses, as well as delineating the pattern of symptoms across the menstrual cycle.
These illnesses include but are not limited to:
• premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• premenstrual syndrome
• menstrual psychosis
• premenstrual exacerbation of an underlying psychiatric illness
• premenstrual symptoms
• exacerbations of underlying psychiatric illnesses at different times of the menstrual cycle (including, but not limited to, the course of mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic disorders across the menstrual cycle).

Case reports may be considered if they include a novel discussion.

Keywords: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, Premenstrual syndrome, Premenstrual symptoms, Menstrual cycle, Menstrual psychosis, Premenstrual exacerbation, Reproductive depression

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