Psychological strengths linked to better PMS and PMDD functioning
A study of 228 people aged 18 to 52 examined whether mindfulness skills and a compassionate attitude toward oneself relate to fewer difficulties from severe premenstrual symptoms. The researchers also looked at sense of coherence, past trauma, perceived stress, and premenstrual disorder symptoms. The findings suggest these psychological resources may help people function better during PMS or PMDD.
The study involved 228 people ages 18 to 52. Some participants reported prior premenstrual experiences, and a subset logged symptoms across two menstrual cycles. Researchers from SWPS University and Jagiellonian University examined sense of coherence, mindfulness, self-compassion, past trauma, perceived stress, and premenstrual disorder symptoms. The work appeared in Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice.
PMS is estimated to affect roughly one-fifth to three-tenths of menstruating people, while PMDD affects about 3% to 8%. Symptoms arise in the cycle’s second phase and can disrupt school, work, relationships, and quality of life. The findings suggest psychological resources may buffer stress and trauma effects.
This research may matter to menstruating people who experience severe premenstrual symptoms, as well as employers, educators, clinicians, and families who support them. If psychological skills such as mindfulness and self-compassion can lessen stress-related impairment, they could inform low-stigma support options and workplace or clinical conversations. Still, the study’s design cannot establish causation or broad societal effects, so any impact would likely depend on access, acceptability, and further replication.