Changes in the capillary filtration coefficient of cutaneous vessels in women with premenstrual tension

Abstract In an attempt to explain excessive fluid retention, the most common feature in the syndrome of subjective and objective changes called premenstrual tension, we investigated changes in the peripheral circulations of women with this complaint. To obtain evidence on the vascular system's ability to maintain a constant circulating fluid volume, we measured capillary filtration coefficient in the forearm. Women who complained of premenstrual distress showed a significant change in capillary filtration coefficient (CFC) during the month; the lowest CFC values were found immediately after the onset of the menses; the highest values occurred just before the beginning of menstruation. In a group of women who claim to be completely free of the complaint, the CFC was uniform throughout the cycle.