Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in East Asia: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Objective: Fluctuations in ovarian steroids during specific phases of the reproductive cycle, such as pre-menstruation, have been hypothesized to contribute to women's increased vulnerability to depression. This current study's goal is to summarize the literature regarding Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in the East Asian countries of Taiwan, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Japan, and Korea. Method: A Pubmed and Chinese Electronic Periodical Service (CEPS) literature review was conducted using the key words “Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder” along with “Japan,” “Korea,” “Taiwan,” “Hong Kong,” and “Macau.” Using these criteria, 17 articles were found. Three articles were excluded because they did not involve PMDD in the aforementioned countries. In addition to this search, an article found in a review of the research on reproductive mental health disorders in China was utilized. That review contained one article regarding PMDD with an English language abstract, which was utilized in this current article. Results: The rates of PMDD in East Asia (1.3–2.8%) appear to be lower than that seen in the Western literature (3–8%). Many of the risk factors for PMDD were the same in the Eastern and Western literature, although some key differences were found. The few studies on treatment of PMDD in East Asia have shown positive results. Conclusions: The rates of PMDD appear to be lower in East Asia, though reasons for this result are discussed. Few studies have been conducted examining the efficacy of psychotropic medications commonly used to treat PMDD in this population.