Not infrequently we see women who ask about the possibility of oophorectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries) as a means of managing what appears to be a menstrually related mood disorder. While this is an [...]
While about 5% of women have premenstrual dysphoric disorder, we more commonly see women who experience premenstrual exacerbation of mood and anxiety disorders. Â A small study of 15 women with borderline personality disorder (who were [...]
When we meet with women reporting premenstrual symptoms, we often recommend that they avoid the use of alcohol. Â Analyzing 19 previously published studies of alcohol and PMS, researcher found that risk for PMS risk [...]
Chasteberry, the fruit of the chaste tree or Vitex agnus castus, has long been touted as a remedy for a range of reproductive problems, including premenstrual symptoms or PMS. Â Two recent publications have reviewed data [...]
The article that received the most attention this week is one examining the risks associated with the use of stimulants to treat ADHD during pregnancy (Cohen JM et al, 2017). Â There were no real surprises [...]
The following post was first published in Current Psychiatry, published September 2017, Vol. 16, No. 9, p. 20-28. Check out the article on Current Psychiatry or listen to Dr. Raffi discuss treatment of menstrual–related mood and anxiety [...]
PMDD or premenstrual dysphoric disorder has always been a bit of mystery. Â We explain that PMDD is triggered by changes in reproductive hormone levels, but when you look at hormone levels in women with PMDD, [...]
St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herbal preparation which has been shown, in some studies, to be effective for the treatment of mild to moderate depressive symptoms. St. John’s wort is now one of [...]
 Many endocrinological, physical, and psychological changes occur in the adolescent years. Dysmenorrhea,or painful menses, is a relatively common complaint among adolescent girls.   A recent study in the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology explored [...]
Multiple studies support the efficacy of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Â In the initial studies, treatment was administered daily throughout the entire menstrual cycle. Â Researchers observed that for [...]
