Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) has to do with a group of physiological symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle.

Typically, PMS symptoms begin after ovulation and cease immediately on the day bleeding begins. Pregnant women do not menstruate and do not experience PMS.

PMS can come and go throughout at woman’s reproductive years. It may become more severe during perimenopause, which is the years preceding the end of the menstrual cycle in menopause.

According the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, approximately 40% of women experience PMS on a consistent basis. Other numbers suggest that 85% of women will experience one or more of the symptoms over the course of their reproductive life.

What are the symptoms of PMS?

1 or 2 weeks before menstruation begins, many women experience emotional and physical disruptions that include:

  • Headache
  • Bloating
  • Swollen hands and feet
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Upset stomach
  • Acne
  • Breast tenderness and swelling
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Irritability
  • Food cravings
  • Joint ache or muscle pain

What Causes PMS?

PMS is not caused by abnormal levels of hormones, but it may be linked to changes in hormonal levels during a menstrual cycle. Stress alone does not cause PMS, but stress may make worsen the symptoms. And although PMS is not a psychological illness, mental health problems may increase risk of PMS. Other risk factors include:

  • A family history of PMS
  • Aging
  • A deficiency of calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin B6
  • An unbalanced diet
  • High caffeine intake

1 or 2 weeks before menstruation begins, many women experience emotional and physical disruptions which impact their personal and professional lives.

Mild to Severe PMS

Women who suffer from PMS can have different symptoms – it’s not the same with everyone. Most of the time the symptoms are mild and don’t require a doctor’s attention. But if PMS interferes with a woman’s professional life, or impairs normal activities and fun, she would probably benefit from talking about strategies to better manage her situation.

For a small group of women, PMS is more severe and requires a treatment strategy to help reduce and eliminate symptoms.

How can PMS be managed or treated?

It’s helpful to keep a calendar of PMS symptoms to track when and where the symptoms occur. Mild cases of PMS often can be helped by adopting a healthier lifestyle: doing aerobic exercise, eating healthy foods, and getting enough sleep. Avoid foods and beverages that can increase bloating, irritability, and breast soreness before menstruation. These can include salty products, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. Ibuprofen, diuretics, birth control pills, and antidepressants may be used for some cases of severe PMS.

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