Menstruation-Related Hypersomnia Treated with Hormonal Contraception: Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Menstrual-related hypersomnia (MRH) is a rare disorder consisting of recurrent hypersomnia that is temporally linked with menses. An unusual case of an 18-yearold female with repeated episodes of hypersomnia was referred to a psychiatrist and a neurologist. A review of the literature was done so that an accurate diagnosis could be made, thereby enabling the development of an appropriate treatment plan. Making an effective diagnosis was a challenge because of the similarity of the symptoms of MRH with other psychiatric disorders. As additional clinical features were identified and treatments were ruled ineffective, further diagnoses were proposed. The patient’s symptoms ceased with oral contraceptive treatment. Hormones play a role in the menstrual cycle and frequently affect behavior (such as sleep patterns). This case underlines the importance of multidisciplinary evaluation and treatment in unusual cases. The potential role of hormone fluctuation in patients with psychiatric conditions should be considered when diagnosing and treating those who are unresponsive to traditional pharmacological treatments.