Differences in Perimenstrual Symptoms between Cocaine‐Abusing and Non‐Cocaine‐Abusing Women

Abstract

Cocaine abuse among women has become a major health problem in the United States, yet there is little information in the literature concerning the effects of this form of substance abuse on a woman's reproductive system. This study of 65 women in residential treatment for cocaine abuse and 65 non‐cocaine‐abusing women was undertaken to determine if there are differences in frequency or severity of perimenstrual symptoms between these two groups of women. Data were collected by questionnaire and included demographics, a substance use history, and the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire developed by Moos. Findings suggested that there are statistically significant differences in frequency and severity of perimenstrual symptoms between the two groups of women.