Authors
Megan Buys, Raquel Peel, Denise Buiten
Published in
Arts & health. Pages 1-21. Nov 12, 2026. Epub Nov 12, 2026.
Abstract
Premenstrual change (PMC) - inclusive of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and premenstrual exacerbation (PME) - impacts a significant number of individuals worldwide. Despite this, few psychotherapy programs have been developed specifically for PMC, and even fewer studies have examined participant experiences of these programs.
The study used body mapping as a therapeutic activity and research method to explore participants' experiences of a five-session co-designed psychotherapy program tailored to PMC, involving Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS). Body maps were completed in the first and fifth sessions. Eight individuals completed the psychotherapy program. The sessions were audio-recorded, with both arts-based data and transcripts thematically analysed.
Analysis revealed two overarching themes. The first, Managing the Uncontrollable, emerged from the initial session and described the emotional shifts experienced during PMC (Fragmented), a sense of the body as unacceptable (Abjected), and coping strategies such as self-punishment and isolation (Punished). The second theme, Becoming Self-Led, emerged in the final session and captured the development of an embodied sense of Self (Embodied), an increased capacity to lead from this Self (Embraced), and transformed relationships with internal parts over time (Transformed).
A tailored psychotherapy program integrating IFS and arts-based methods may support meaningful and transformative therapeutic outcomes for individuals impacted by PMC.
PMID:
43018113
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 12 Nov 2026.
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