criteria for diagnosing the core premenstrual disorder

Last edited 09/2018

criteria for diagnosing the core premenstrual disorder

The International Society for Premenstrual Disorders (ISPMD) has defined the following criteria for the diagnosis of core premenstrual disorder:

• it is precipitated by ovulation
• symptoms are not defined, although typical symptoms exist
• any number of symptoms can be present
• physical and psychological symptoms are important
• symptoms recur in the luteal phase
• symptoms disappear by the end of menstruation
• a symptom-free week occurs between menstruation and ovulation
• symptoms must be prospectively rated
• symptoms are not an exacerbation of an underlying psychological or physical disorder
• symptoms cause significant distress and impairment of daily activities, such as work commitments, social interactions and family activities (1).

Note:

• some patients with severe psychological symptom may fulfil American Psychiatric Association (APA) criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• the criteria for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) fulfil the ISPMD criteria for core premenstrual disorder (2)

Reference:

• (1) Walsh S, Ismaili E, Naheed B, O'Brien S. Diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of premenstrual syndrome. The Obstetrician &Gynaecologist 2015;17:99-104
• (2) O'Brien S et al. Diagnosis and management of premenstrual disorders. BMJ. 2011;342:d2994.