Cyclic overview: what is it and how does it work?
The cyclic overview in PMDD Tracker makes cyclic patterns in your DRSP data visible. It uses the C-PASS method published by Eisenlohr-Moul and colleagues in 2017. It supports a conversation with your clinician and is not a diagnosis.
Why does standardised pattern recognition matter?
Without a consistent scoring method, it is difficult to judge whether symptoms follow a cyclic pattern. C-PASS provides a reproducible way to compare cycle phases and supports a better-informed clinical conversation. The method is used internationally in research and reflects DSM-5 criteria.
Clear data can also help a clinician distinguish PMDD from PME, PMS and non-cyclic symptoms.
How does the cyclic overview work?
- You complete the DRSP daily: 21 symptoms rated 1 to 6 and three interference items.
- At least two complete cycles provide enough data to assess repetition.
- Each symptom is compared across phases.
- Luteal and follicular scores are compared.
- The overview shows how many symptoms follow a cyclic pattern.
- Interference is included: impact on work, relationships or activities.
- You receive a pattern overview, not a diagnostic label.
What the C-PASS method measures
- At least one core emotional symptom must show a cyclic pattern.
- At least five symptoms in total must show that pattern.
- There must be interference with functioning.
- The pattern must occur in at least two assessed cycles.
Scientific source: Eisenlohr-Moul TA, et al. Toward the Reliable Diagnosis of DSM-5 Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: The Carolina Premenstrual Assessment Scoring System (C-PASS). American Journal of Psychiatry. 2017;174(1):51-59.
The cyclic overview in PMDD Tracker
Per finished cycle, once enough days before and after menstruation are filled in, PMDD Tracker compares your cycle phases and presents the result visually. The overview is included in the PDF you can share with a GP, gynaecologist or psychiatrist.
PMDD Tracker combines the DRSP with the C-PASS comparison in your language and is free. It does not show classification labels, diagnose, analyse your health or act as a medical device. See recognition and DRSP.
What can you do with the cyclic overview?
Take the overview or PDF to a clinician as a starting point. If you are receiving treatment, continued tracking can also show how luteal symptoms change across cycles.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the cyclic overview diagnose PMDD?
- No. It makes patterns in self-reported data visible and shows no classification label. Only a clinician can diagnose PMDD.
- How many cycles are needed?
- The app shows an overview per finished cycle once enough days before and after menstruation are filled in. For a clinical diagnosis, DSM-5 and C-PASS expect at least two complete cycles. Read the full recognition process.
- What if there is no clear cyclic pattern?
- Your symptoms still matter. The pattern may fit PME, milder PMS or non-cyclic symptoms. Discuss it with a clinician and read about PME.
Start tracking today
Build your cyclic overview once you have a finished cycle with enough filled days.
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