The timing of menstruation-related symptoms assessed by a daily symptom rating scale.

A daily symptom rating scale (DSRS) was constructed from items previously used in questionnaires and rating scales measuring menstrual symptoms. The DSRS was found to have adequate reliability and validity. The profiles of symptom intensity of 65 women, mainly hospital staff, median age 19, during one menstrual cycle, with particular emphasis on the premenstrual week and menstruation are reported. Significant differences in ratings during the cycle were found. Ratings increased during the premenstrual week and were maximal on the days immediately preceding and following the onset of menstruation. No abrupt decline in ratings was found when menstruation commenced. Results were compared with answers to a menstrual distress questionnaire, previously administered to the same women and the questionnaire results were in good agreement with DSRS results on the day of maximum symptom intensity (the day immediately before or the day immediately after the onset of menstruation.