Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Overview
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Causes
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medications
• Other Therapy
• Next Steps
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Support Groups and Counseling
• Authors and Editors

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Overview

Premenstrual syndrome (known as PMS) involves a variety of physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms tied to a woman’s menstrual cycle. By definition, symptoms occur during the days before a woman's period starts. They usually go away after the first day or two of flow.

PMS is a complex health concern. Up to 80% of women experience some symptoms of PMS. Scientists cannot agree on its cause or the best way to treat PMS.

• PMS usually occurs in women in their fourth and fifth decades of life (aged 30-49 years). For a small number of women, it can be severely incapacitating. A woman who has had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may still experience PMS if at least one ovary remains.

• Because many different processes may contribute to PMS, methods of treatment vary widely and can include medical and alternative approaches. Surgery is a last resort.

• As many as 3-8% of women may have a more severe condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMS and PMDD are not the same. Women with PMDD become seriously depressed for a week or more before their periods. PMS is shorter, usually milder, and involves more physical symptoms. The two may occur together, or a woman may have one and not the other.