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Jahanfar S, Mortazavi J, Lapidow A, Cu C, Al Abosy J, Morris K, Becerra-Mateus JC, Andrenacci P, Badawy M, Steinfeldt M, Maurer O, Jiang B, Ali M. Assessing the impact of contraceptive use on mental health among women of reproductive age - a systematic review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:396. [PMID: 38816797 PMCID: PMC11137968 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06587-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contraceptive use is the principal method by which women avoid unintended pregnancy. An unintended pregnancy can induce long-term distress related to the medical, emotional, and social consequences of carrying that pregnancy to term. OBJECTIVES This review investigates the effects of modern contraception techniques such as birth control pills, long-acting reversible contraceptives (e.g., intrauterine devices, implants), and condoms on mental health status. METHODS We searched multiple databases from inception until February 2022, with no geographical boundaries. RCTs underwent a quality assessment using the GRADE approach while the quality of observational studies was assessed using the Downs and Black scoring system. Data were analyzed through meta-analysis and relative risk and mean difference were calculated and forest plots were created for each outcome when two or more data points were eligible for analysis. MAIN RESULTS The total number of included studies was 43. In women without previous mental disorders, both RCTs (3 studies, SMD 0.18, 95% CI [0.02, 0.34], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (RR 1.04 95% CI [1.03, 1.04]) detected a slight increase in the risk of depression development. In women with previous mental disorders, both RCTs (9 studies, SMD - 0.15, 95% CI [-0.30, -0.00], high quality of evidence) and cohort studies (SMD - 0.26, 95% CI [-0.37, -0.15]) detected slight protective effects of depression development. It was also noticed that HC demonstrated protective effects for anxiety in both groups (SMD - 0.20, 95% CI [-0.40, -0.01]). CONCLUSIONS Among women with pre-existing mental disorders who use hormonal contraceptives, we reported protective association with decreased depressive symptoms. However, the study also draws attention to some potential negative effects, including an increase in the risk of depression and antidepressant use among contraceptive users, a risk that is higher among women who use the hormonal IUD, implant, or patch/ring methods. Providers should select contraceptive methods taking individual aspects into account to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayesteh Jahanfar
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Julie Mortazavi
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Amy Lapidow
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Cassandra Cu
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Jude Al Abosy
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Katherine Morris
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | | | - Paola Andrenacci
- Coordinator Cochrane US Mentoring Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Marwa Badawy
- Cochrane mentee, US Mentoring Program, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Meredith Steinfeldt
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Olivia Maurer
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Bohang Jiang
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, US
| | - Moazzam Ali
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, Geneva 27, Geneva, CH-1211, Switzerland.
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Barone JC, Butler MP, Ross A, Patterson A, Wagner-Schuman M, Eisenlohr-Moul TA. A scoping review of hormonal clinical trials in menstrual cycle-related brain disorders: Studies in premenstrual mood disorder, menstrual migraine, and catamenial epilepsy. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 71:101098. [PMID: 37619655 PMCID: PMC10843388 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic variations in hormones during the normal menstrual cycle underlie multiple central nervous system (CNS)-linked disorders, including premenstrual mood disorder (PMD), menstrual migraine (MM), and catamenial epilepsy (CE). Despite this foundational mechanistic link, these three fields operate independently of each other. In this scoping review (N = 85 studies), we survey existing human research studies in PMD, MM, and CE to outline the exogenous experimental hormone manipulation trials conducted in these fields. We examine a broad range of literature across these disorders in order to summarize existing diagnostic practices and research methods, highlight gaps in the experimental human literature, and elucidate future research opportunities within each field. While no individual treatment or study design can fit every disease, there is immense overlap in study design and established neuroendocrine-based hormone sensitivity among the menstrual cycle-related disorders PMD, MM, and CE. SCOPING REVIEW STRUCTURED SUMMARY Background. The menstrual cycle can be a biological trigger of symptoms in certain brain disorders, leading to specific, menstrual cycle-linked phenomena such as premenstrual mood disorders (PMD), menstrual migraine (MM), and catamenial epilepsy (CE). Despite the overlap in chronicity and hormonal provocation, these fields have historically operated independently, without any systematic communication about methods or mechanisms. OBJECTIVE Online databases were used to identify articles published between 1950 and 2021 that studied hormonal manipulations in reproductive-aged females with either PMD, MM, or CE. We selected N = 85 studies that met the following criteria: 1) included a study population of females with natural menstrual cycles (e.g., not perimenopausal, pregnant, or using hormonal medications that were not the primary study variable); 2) involved an exogenous hormone manipulation; 3) involved a repeated measurement across at least two cycle phases as the primary outcome variable. CHARTING METHODS After exporting online database query results, authors extracted sample size, clinical diagnosis of sample population, study design, experimental hormone manipulation, cyclical outcome measure, and results from each trial. Charting was completed manually, with two authors reviewing each trial. RESULTS Exogenous hormone manipulations have been tested as treatment options for PMD (N = 56 trials) more frequently than MM (N = 21) or CE (N = 8). Combined oral contraceptive (COC) trials, specifically those containing drospirenone as the progestin, are a well-studied area with promising results for treating both PMDD and MM. We found no trials of COCs in CE. Many trials test ovulation suppression using gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa), and a meta-analysis supports their efficacy in PMD; GnRHa have been tested in two MM-related trials, and one CE open-label case series. Finally, we found that non-contraceptive hormone manipulations, including but not limited to short-term transdermal estradiol, progesterone supplementation, and progesterone antagonism, have been used across all three disorders. CONCLUSIONS Research in PMD, MM, and CE commonly have overlapping study design and research methods, and similar effects of some interventions suggest the possibility of overlapping mechanisms contributing to their cyclical symptom presentation. Our scoping review is the first to summarize existing clinical trials in these three brain disorders, specifically focusing on hormonal treatment trials. We find that PMD has a stronger body of literature for ovulation-suppressing COC and GnRHa trials; the field of MM consists of extensive estrogen-based studies; and current consensus in CE focuses on progesterone supplementation during the luteal phase, with limited estrogen manipulations due to concerns about seizure provocation. We argue that researchers in any of these respective disciplines would benefit from greater communication regarding methods for assessment, diagnosis, subtyping, and experimental manipulation. With this scoping review, we hope to increase collaboration and communication among researchers to ultimately improve diagnosis and treatment for menstrual-cycle-linked brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C Barone
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychiatry, USA; University of Illinois at Chicago, Medical Scientist Training Program, USA.
| | - Mitchell P Butler
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Medical Scientist Training Program, USA; University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, USA
| | - Ashley Ross
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychiatry, USA; University of Illinois at Chicago, Medical Scientist Training Program, USA
| | - Anna Patterson
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychiatry, USA; University of Illinois at Chicago, Medical Scientist Training Program, USA
| | | | - Tory A Eisenlohr-Moul
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Psychiatry, USA; University of Illinois at Chicago, Medical Scientist Training Program, USA
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3
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Ciccone N, Kovacheff MB, Frey BN. The pharmacotherapeutic management of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:145-151. [PMID: 35974667 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2114345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition associated with substantial mental distress, impaired psychosocial functioning, high rates of co-morbid psychiatric conditions, and elevated risk of suicide. AREAS COVERED We provide an update on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnosis of PMDD, with a focus on the pharmacological management of this condition. EXPERT OPINION Given the high rates of false positives from retrospective assessments, prospective daily symptom monitoring for a minimal of two symptomatic menstrual cycles is critical to accurately confirm (or rule out) the diagnosis of PMDD. Serotonin-based antidepressants are well-established first-line treatments of PMDD. Second-line treatment includes the use of combined, monophasic oral contraceptives. In mild to moderate cases, independent meta-analyses have shown efficacy of Chasteberry extract (Vitex agnus cactus). Preliminary results with compounds blocking the synthesis of allopregnanolone are promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Ciccone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maya B Kovacheff
- Mood Disorders Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benicio N Frey
- Women's Health Concerns Clinic, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Mood Disorders Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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4
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Eisenlohr-Moul TA, Bowers SM, Prinstein MJ, Schmalenberger KM, Walsh EC, Young SL, Rubinow DR, Girdler SS. Effects of acute estradiol and progesterone on perimenstrual exacerbation of suicidal ideation and related symptoms: a crossover randomized controlled trial. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:528. [PMID: 36585408 PMCID: PMC9803670 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02294-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Female suicide attempts peak peri-menstrually-around the onset of menses-when the ovarian steroids estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) fall rapidly. Given preclinical evidence that withdrawal from either E2 or P4 can provoke behaviors consistent with elevated suicide risk, we hypothesized that withdrawal from one or both of these steroids contributes to perimenstrual exacerbation of suicidal ideation (SI) and related symptoms. In a randomized, controlled, double-blind crossover experiment (NCT03720847), a transdiagnostic sample of naturally cycling, medically healthy psychiatric outpatients reporting past-month SI completed two conditions during two different 14-day experimental intervals (days 7-20 where the luteinizing hormone surge = day 0), separated by a monthlong washout cycle. In the E2 and P4 (EP) condition, participants received transdermal E2 (0.1 mg/day) plus oral micronized P4 (200 mg/day as 100 mg twice daily) to buffer perimenstrual steroid withdrawal. A matched placebo (PBO) condition allowed natural perimenstrual steroid withdrawal. Participants reported daily SI and planning (primary outcomes) and indices of depression (low mood, hopelessness), threat sensitivity (anxiety, perceived stress), executive functioning (difficulty concentrating, impulsivity), and social cognitive bias (rejection sensitivity, perceived burdensomeness). In baseline cycles, no participant met prospective criteria for DSM-5 premenstrual dysphoric disorder, but 59% met all criteria except full follicular symptom remission, and 93% showed the highest SI in the perimenstrual phase. Of 29 randomized, 28 were analyzed (14 EP-PBO, 14 PBO-EP). Experimental administration of E2 and P4 (relative to PBO) reduced perimenstrual exacerbation of SI, suicide planning, depression, hopelessness, perceived stress, rejection sensitivity, and perceived burdensomeness, particularly in the perimenstrual (natural E2 and P4 withdrawal) days. Further, delayed withdrawal from experimental E2 and P4 (but not PBO) recapitulated SI, hopelessness, and rejection sensitivity. Acute perimenstrual withdrawal from ovarian steroids may play a causal role in perimenstrual worsening of depression and SI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tory A Eisenlohr-Moul
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Savannah M Bowers
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mitchell J Prinstein
- Department of Psychology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Katja M Schmalenberger
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Institute for Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Erin C Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - David R Rubinow
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Susan S Girdler
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Psychiatric illnesses are very prevalent in the United States and impact women and men differently. In this review, we will explore some gender differences in the expression of psychopathology, discuss the most common serious mental illnesses (SMI) affecting women, and review treatment options according to specific life stages. We hope to raise awareness of these issues and consequently improve outcomes for women with serious mental illness. RECENT FINDINGS SMI have different rates and are manifested differently in women and men because of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors. Some SMI are more prevalent in women whereas others uniquely affect them during particular life stages. Even in disorders that have a similar prevalence in men and women or are more prevalent in men, the presentation, course, management, and repercussions can vary significantly between the two genders. Medical and psychiatric comorbidities, which directly influence treatment, prognosis, and disability, are more common in women. SUMMARY Several differences in the gender expression of SMI have not yet been fully described. It is important to become familiar with important characteristics of SMI in women, including biological determinants, treatment differences, and psychosocial aspects. Recognizing gender biases, cultural considerations, and adaptive responses can help identify women at risk, promote early recognition of symptoms, and prompt interventions that may lead to improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Almeida
- Harvard Medical School, Boston
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sun J Fletcher
- Harvard Medical School, Boston
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Lundin C, Wikman A, Bixo M, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Sundström Poromaa I. Towards individualised contraceptive counselling: clinical and reproductive factors associated with self-reported hormonal contraceptive-induced adverse mood symptoms. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 47:e8. [PMID: 33452056 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2020-200658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aim was to establish which demographic, clinical, reproductive and psychiatric factors are associated with self-reported hormonal contraceptive (HC)-induced adverse mood symptoms. STUDY DESIGN We compiled baseline data from two Swedish studies: one cross-sectional study on combined oral contraceptive (COC)-induced adverse mood symptoms (n=118) and one randomised controlled trial on adverse mood symptoms on COC (n=184). Both included women eligible for COC use, aged over 18 years. All women answered a questionnaire on HC use and associated mood problems. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) was used to capture mood and anxiety disorders. Women who acknowledged HC-induced adverse mood symptoms, ongoing or previously (n=145), were compared with women without any such experience (n=157). RESULTS Compared with women without self-reported HC-induced adverse mood symptoms, women with these symptoms were younger at HC start (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.83, 95% CI 0.72 to 0.95), had more often undergone induced abortion (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.57 to 7.23), more often suffered from an ongoing minor depressive disorder (n=12 vs n=0) and had more often experienced any previous mental health problem (aOR 1.90, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.59). CONCLUSIONS In line with previous research, this study suggests that women with previous or ongoing mental health problems and women who are younger at HC start are more likely to experience HC-induced adverse mood symptoms. Former and current mental health should be addressed at contraceptive counselling, and ongoing mental health disorders should be adequately treated. IMPLICATIONS This study adds valuable knowledge for identification of women susceptible to HC-induced adverse mood symptoms. It should facilitate the assessment of whether or not a woman has an increased risk of such symptoms, and thus enable clinicians to adopt a more personalised approach to contraceptive counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Lundin
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Wikman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marie Bixo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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7
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Owens SA, Eisenlohr-Moul TA. Understanding menstrual cycle effects on suicide will require prospective studies of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in premenstrual disorders. BMC Med 2021; 19:135. [PMID: 34078369 PMCID: PMC8173752 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-021-02010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Owens
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-3270, USA.
| | - Tory A Eisenlohr-Moul
- Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Neuropsychiatric Institute, 912 S Wood St, South Tower, MC 913, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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8
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Schweizer-Schubert S, Gordon JL, Eisenlohr-Moul TA, Meltzer-Brody S, Schmalenberger KM, Slopien R, Zietlow AL, Ehlert U, Ditzen B. Steroid Hormone Sensitivity in Reproductive Mood Disorders: On the Role of the GABA A Receptor Complex and Stress During Hormonal Transitions. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 7:479646. [PMID: 33585496 PMCID: PMC7873927 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.479646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Women worldwide are two to three times more likely to suffer from depression in their lifetime than are men. Female risk for depressive symptoms is particularly high during the reproductive years between menarche and menopause. The term “Reproductive Mood Disorders” refers to depressive disorders triggered by hormonal fluctuations during reproductive transitions including the perimenarchal phase, the pre-menstrual phase, pregnancy, the peripartum period and the perimenopausal transition. Here we focus on reproductive mood disorders manifesting in adult life. We propose a research agenda that draws together several reproductive mood disorders and investigates which genetic, endocrinological, neural, and psychosocial factors can explain depressive symptoms during phases of hormonal transitions in women. Based on current research it is assumed that some women experience an increased sensitivity to not only fluctuations in reproductive steroids (estrogen and progesterone), but also stress-related steroids. We integrate both dynamics into the concept of “steroid hormone sensitivity,” expanding on the concept of “reproductive hormone sensitivity.” We suggest that a differential response of the stress steroid system including corticosteroids, neurosteroids, like allopregnanolone and the GABA-A Receptor complex, as well as a differential (epi)genetic risk in serotonergic and GABAergic signaling, are moderators or mediators between changes in the reproductive steroid system and the physiological, affective, and cognitive outcomes manifesting in reproductive mood disorders. We point to the lack of research on the role of psychosocial factors in increasing a woman's stress level and at some point also the sensitivity of her stress steroid system within the etiology of Reproductive Mood Disorders. Drawing together the evidence on various reproductive mood disorders we seek to present a basis for the development of more effective pharmacological, social, and psychological treatment interventions and prevention strategies for women susceptible to these disorders. This could pave the way for new research as well as medical and psychological teaching and practice- such as a new type of Practice for Gynecological Psychoneuroendocrinology- with the aim of working on and ultimately offering more integrative forms of support not yet available to women suffering from depression during hormonal transitions. In medical history women have been left alone with this integrative challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schweizer-Schubert
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Practice for Psychoendocrinology and Psychotherapy, Heilbronn, Germany
| | | | - Tory A Eisenlohr-Moul
- Women's Mental Health Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Katja M Schmalenberger
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Radoslaw Slopien
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna-Lena Zietlow
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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9
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In contrast to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), premenstrual exacerbations (PMEs) of ongoing mood disorders are understudied. The aim of this review is to describe diagnostic issues, epidemiology, underlying mechanisms, and treatment for PME in unipolar depression and bipolar disorder, and to discuss clinical and research implications. RECENT FINDINGS Community-based and clinical studies estimate that in women with mood disorders around 60% report PME, while some women with bipolar disorder also show symptom exacerbations around ovulation. In general, PME predicts a more severe illness course and an increased burden. While heightened sensitivity to fluctuations of sex hormone levels across the menstrual cycle appears to contribute to PME and PMDD, the overlap of their underlying biological mechanisms remains unclear. Beneficial treatments for PMDD show less or no efficacy in PME. Pharmacological treatments for PME in mood disorders predominantly seem to profit from adjustable augmentation of treatment dosages during the luteal phase for the underlying disorder. However, the evidence is sparse and mainly based on earlier small studies and case reports. Previous research is mainly limited by the lack of a clear differentiation between PME and PMDD comorbidity with mood disorders. More systematic research with uniformly defined and prospectively assessed subgroups of PME in larger epidemiological and clinical samples is needed to receive reliable prevalence estimates and information on the clinical impact of PME of mood disorders, and to uncover underlying mechanisms. In addition, larger randomized controlled trials are warranted to identify efficacious pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments for affected women.
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10
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Roe AH, Kumar-Kaparaboyna P, Nathan M, Dutton C. Effects of Hormonal Contraception on Mood. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-020-00295-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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11
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Sepede G, Brunetti M, Di Giannantonio M. Comorbid Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in Women with Bipolar Disorder: Management Challenges. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2020; 16:415-426. [PMID: 32103961 PMCID: PMC7020916 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s202881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bipolar disorder (BD) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are two cyclic mood illnesses, sometimes presenting together. Their comorbidity appears to be linked to common biological mechanisms and usually results in more severity of mood symptoms and a poorer long-term outcome. Nevertheless, the management of comorbid PMDD/BD has been scarcely studied. Therefore, the aim of the present paper was to review the published literature on the treatment of comorbid PMDD/BD and to provide point-by-point hypotheses to address these complex clinical cases. We searched PubMed to identify the studies focused on the treatment and management of comorbid PMDD/BD using the following search words, alone and in combination: premenstrual dysphoric disorder, bipolar disorder, comorbid, treatment, management, pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy. The search was conducted on the 1st of June 2019 and yielded 55 records. Four papers met our inclusion/exclusion criteria and were therefore included in our qualitative synthesis. Integrating the few data pertaining to the treatment of comorbid PMDD/BD with the large amount of published data on the two conditions separately, we can suggest that the management of comorbid PMDD/BD needs as a first step to stabilize the bipolar symptoms by means of optimal dosages of mood stabilizers. Then, in euthymic BD patients, the PMDD symptoms could be treated with estroprogestins (first-line treatment). On the contrary, during acute phases of BD, antidepressants (for major depressive episodes) and atypical antipsychotics/hormonal modulators (for manic episodes) could be considered as promising add-on treatments to mood stabilizers. In case of resistant PMDD/BD symptoms, combined strategies should be taken into account, as well as alternative treatments, such as lifestyle changes. In conclusion, RCTs on comorbid PMDD/BD are still lacking. The management of this complex condition is therefore challenging and it requires a tailored treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianna Sepede
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Marcella Brunetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Giannantonio
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy.,Department of Mental Health - Chieti, National Health Trust, Chieti, Italy
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12
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Peters JR, Eisenlohr-Moul TA. Ovarian Hormones as a Source of Fluctuating Biological Vulnerability in Borderline Personality Disorder. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2019; 21:109. [PMID: 31624929 PMCID: PMC7047501 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-019-1096-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To examine the potential role of ovarian hormones in biological vulnerability to borderline personality disorder (BPD). The review focuses primarily on research examining the menstrual cycle as a source of short-term lability of BPD symptom expression, while discussing the currently understudied possibility of ovarian hormone influence in the developmental course of BPD. FINDINGS Several patterns of menstrual cycle effects on BPD symptoms and relevant features in non-clinical samples have been observed in empirical studies. Most symptoms demonstrated patterns consistent with perimenstrual exacerbation; however, timing varied between high and low arousal symptoms, potentially reflecting differing mechanisms. Symptoms are typically lowest around ovulation, with an exception for proactive aggression and some forms of impulsive behaviors. Preliminary evidence suggests ovarian hormones may exert strong effects on BPD symptom expression, and further research is warranted examining mechanisms and developing interventions. Recommendations for researchers and clinicians working with BPD are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Peters
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Box G-BH, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| | - Tory A Eisenlohr-Moul
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
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13
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Eisenlohr-Moul T. Premenstrual Disorders: A Primer and Research Agenda for Psychologists. THE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST 2019; 72:5-17. [PMID: 32362679 PMCID: PMC7193982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tory Eisenlohr-Moul
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago
- International Association for Premenstrual Disorders Clinical Advisory Board
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