What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Menstruation is when you have your period. Premenstrual means occurring before your period. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the set of physical and mental symptoms you may have around the time of your period. The symptoms bother some women more than others.
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PMS may be partly caused by changes in your hormone levels during your menstrual cycle
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Some women have a more severe form of PMS that interferes with daily life, called premenstrual dysphoric disorder
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You can ease your symptoms by being active, not eating certain foods and drinks, and sometimes by taking medicine
What causes PMS?
What are the symptoms of PMS?
Symptoms can begin up to 10 days before your period and usually end when your period starts. Symptoms may get worse and last longer as you get closer to menopause (when you stop having periods).
Mental and emotional symptoms can include:
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Feeling sadness or depression
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Nervousness
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Mood swings (swinging back and forth between feeling very happy and very sad)
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Short temper
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Not wanting to be around other people
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Confusion
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A hard time focusing
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Forgetting things
Physical symptoms can include:
The following disorders aren't PMS. But if you have one of these, your symptoms of that disorder may get worse during PMS:
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Connective tissue disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
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Breathing disorders, such as asthma and allergies
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Mood disorders, such as depression
If your PMS is so bad it interferes with your daily life, you may have a severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
How can doctors tell if I have PMS?
How do doctors treat PMS?
Some things may help your PMS symptoms:
Doctors may have you take:
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Vitamins and supplements, such as vitamin B, vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium
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Diuretics (water pills), which make you urinate more and may help ease bloating
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, to help with headaches, cramps, or joint and muscle pain
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Birth control pills
If you have severe PMS symptoms or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, doctors may have you take:
If you have symptoms of depression, doctors may send you to a mental health care provider for testing and treatment.
