Towards a definition of PMS.II: A factor analytic evaluation of premenstrual change in women with symptomatic premenstrual change.
We have examined the value of the Premenstrual Assessment Form (PAF) in 109 women with prospectively validated symptomatic premenstrual change. Results were compared with those of non-complaining women previously published (J Psychosom Res 1990; 34: 439-446.), there was considerable overlap in categorical and numerical scales so that selection of homogeneous populations of complainers could not be achieved. However, fewer than 7% of complainers had a total PAF numerical score in the normal range (defined as 2 SD above the mean total score of controls). Factor analysis of numerical scores in women with symptomatic premenstrual change suggested three factors similar to but not identical with those of non-complaining women. These were physiological depression, anxiety-volatility and increased well-being. While the negative syndromes are compatible with clinical experience, prospective investigation will be required to assess their homogeneity.
Cumming
D C
DC
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Canada.
Cumming
C E
CE
Krausher
R J
RJ
Fox
E E
EE
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000523:psychology*; D010552:Personality Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011293:Premenstrual Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology*; D011594:Psychometrics