RESUMO
Premenstrual syndrome consists of different somatic and/or psychological symptoms which occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle following ovulation. The symptoms usually occur around mid-circle and in majority of cases are most intense during the last seven days prior to menstruation. Given the fact that this topic has not been adequately addressed in our country the aims of this study have been defined as to determine the type and frequency of somatic and psychological symptoms related to menstruation. The study was done on the sample of 181 women in the age of 15-52 years, of different educational and marital status. Four groups were formed: married (78), single (103), and adult (138) and adolescent (43). In order to determine the type and frequency of symptoms we used a structural interview modified according to DSM-IV criteria. In accordance with DSM-IV criteria 52% of subjects have premenstrual dysphoric disorder, among which 23.4% adolescents, 76.6% adult women. The most frequent somatic symptoms related to menstruation are: swelling of the breasts, weight gain, myalgias, arm and leg swelling (81.8%), changes in appetite (63.5%), sleep problems (55%), headache (47%). The most frequent psychological problems were depressive mood (68%), fatigability and lack of energy (53.6%), anger and social withdrawal (49.7), anxiety (49%), difficulties of concentrating and difficulties with memory (40.7%). There is no statistically significant difference in frequency of symptoms between the groups except in the presence of pain which is significantly more frequent in adolescents. A defeating fact has been noted in that 64.9% of women inadequately define the duration of their menstrual cycle. It is concluded that premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a significant problem of women in Bosnia-Herzegovina (present in 52% of women) with a range of unpleasant psychological and somatic symptoms. Due to all this as well as the fact that a considerable number of women inadequately define the duration of their menstrual cycle, it is necessary to devote greater attention to this problem by public health professionals, family doctors, gynecologists and psychiatrists alike.