A Study of Psychiatric Profile of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in College Girls

Premenstrual syndrome is a common disorder experienced by up to 50%-80% of women during reproductive age. The prevalence of severe form of PMS (PMDD) is 3 % to 8%. Psychiatric disorders in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) patients have resulted in significant morbidity. The main objectives of the study were (1) To find out the prevalence and socio-demographic variables of PMDD in the college girls. (2) To study the personality characteristic and Psychiatric morbidity in the PMDD. A group of 300 female students of Nursing belonging to J.L.N. nursing University, Ajmer, were screened for PMDD by Menstrual History Form and Screening Questionnaire and Menstrual Distress Questionnaire 'A' form [MDQ-Aformby Moos]. Out of the 300 students 24 Students, who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for PMDD (DSM-IV TR criteria) formed the experimental Group. Out of the remaining 276 students, 24 Students matched on socio demographic variable with the Experimental group formed the control group. Both the groups were subjected to Eysenck personality inventory (EPI), Max Hamilton anxiety rating scale (MHARS) and Beck depression inventory (BDI). Prevalence of PMDD in college going girls is 8%. PMDD patients were having significantly higher scores on Neuroticism, MHARS and BDI indicative of high morbidity among PMDD.