Perspectives of Dutch women on premenstrual disorder. A qualitative study exploring women's experiences

Background Women presenting with Premenstrual Disorder (PMD) to general practitioners (GPs) experience problems with their biopsychosocial functioning. PMD is a disorder consisting of physical and/or mood-based symptoms cyclically occurring with a significant impairment of daily life. Little is known about the symptoms and coping strategies of women with PMD and their experiences with their GPs. Objectives This present study aimed to improve understanding of the perspectives of women with PMD, their coping strategies and their expectations of the GP. Design Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews. Setting In 2017, Dutch women with symptoms of premenstrual disorder were recruited through local newspapers in the town of Nijmegen and the North-Holland region and via social media. After checking the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we interviewed 20 women (between 27 and 49 years of age). The interviews took place at a location of the interviewees' preference. Results PMD symptoms can strongly influence the quality of women's lives. Three themes emerged from our analysis: feelings of having two separate female identities, PMD as a life-controlling condition and different coping strategies. Most women used an active coping strategy. Women with PMD need recognition from their GPs and knowledge of proper treatment. Conclusion PMD symptoms can have a high impact on daily life. Women with PMD expressed their need for acknowledgement and a personalised approach from their GP. Greater awareness and knowledge among GPs may be helpful in this.