Menstrual Cycle in Schizophrenic Patients: Review with a Case

A case of repeated mixed mood episodes with psychotic symptoms associated with the premenstrual period in a patient with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Studies have demonstrated that estrogen plays an important role in psychotic and mood disorders in women. Estrogens have a protective effect against the development of these disorders, while hypoestrogenic states may be a risk factor for the development or exacerbation of mental illness. Additionally, women with menstrual cycle abnormalities such as those with a history of anovulation may be more susceptible to monthly estrogen level fluctuation-related mood and psychotic symptoms. We present the case of a young woman with polycystic ovarian syndrome, who experienced three episodes of premenstrual mixed mood and psychotic symptoms.