New approaches for an under-recognized condition
PMDD goes far beyond typical premenstrual symptoms. People living with PMDD may experience severe mood changes, anxiety, irritability, or fatigue each month, which can have a substantial impact on quality of life and participation in everyday activities. Despite this, the condition is often not recognized or is inadequately treated.
In the EVA-Stim project, the research team is investigating whether transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) could provide an effective and practical treatment option for women living with PMDD. The method stimulates the vagus nerve using gentle electrical impulses delivered through an electrode placed on the outer ear. This non-invasive treatment can be self-administered at home following appropriate instruction.
Investigating treatment effects and underlying mechanisms
In addition to evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment, the study is examining the biological mechanisms underlying its effects. Researchers will assess brain activity, heart rate variability, and other physiological markers. The aim is to better understand which participants are most likely to benefit from the treatment and to further advance neuromodulation-based approaches.
The multicentre study is coordinated by University Hospital Magdeburg in collaboration with several DZPG partner sites. At the Halle-Jena-Magdeburg partner site, the Institute of Medical Psychology at University Medicine Magdeburg, led by Prof. Dr. Tino Zähle, is participating in the project. The study is part of the DZPG Neuromodulation infrastructure, which develops innovative neuromodulation approaches for research and clinical practice. In addition to the Halle-Jena-Magdeburg site, researchers from the DZPG partner sites Mannheim-Heidelberg-Ulm (Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim), Munich-Augsburg (Technical University of Munich and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich), and Tübingen (University Hospital Tübingen) are involved.
"PMDD continues to be associated with misconceptions and stigma. Many people living with the condition are not taken seriously, even though it can have a profound impact on quality of life, social participation, and the ability to work," says Dr. Maria Kühne.
For Dr. Kühne, the award also highlights the importance of research into women's mental health. In the long term, the project aims to support the development of new, accessible treatment options for women living with PMDD and to improve care for people affected by the condition.
Source: Press release from the Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Magdeburg
