Differential Effects of Ovarian Steroids in Women With and Without Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: A Replication and Extension of Findings

The authors previously demonstrated that symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) remit during ovarian hormone suppression and recur after estradiol or progesterone is reintroduced (addback). In this study, using a substantially expanded sample, they aimed to 1) evaluate the specific contributions of estradiol and progesterone to symptom development, 2) analyze physical symptoms related to ovarian hormones, 3) identify differences between women with PMDD who experienced continued symptom remission and those who experienced symptom recurrence during hormone addback, and 4) determine whether change in hormone levels from baseline to addback is associated with PMDD symptom severity.