Psychotherapy Modalities for Premenstrual Change: A Systematic Review

Research on psychotherapeutic support for premenstrual change (PMC) is limited. This review synthesizes recent literature on psychotherapeutic modalities for PMC through reviewing the efficacy/effectiveness and client/participant acceptability of these modalities. Thirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty studies investigated cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), one investigated emotion-focused couples therapy, two investigated motivation-based therapies, nine investigated relaxation techniques, and two investigated expressive therapies. All studies reported efficacy and/or effectiveness, yet only seven reported on acceptability. Findings highlight a research gap in client perspectives and the dominance of CBT. Future studies should develop and critically assess tailored therapies that reflect the multifaceted nature of PMC.