Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Medical Author:
Julia Frank, MD
Coauthor:
Todd E Arkava, MD
Coauthor:
John G McManus Jr, MD
Medical Editor:
Bryan D Cowan, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Lee P Shulman, MD
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) OverviewPremenstrual 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.
Viewer Comments & ReviewsPremenstrual Syndrome Pms - SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What are your PMS symptoms? Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective TreatmentsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What kinds of treatments have been effective for your premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? |
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Menstrual Cramps Overview
Menstrual cramps are sharp pains in a woman's lower abdomen that occur when her menstrual period begins and may continue for 2-3 days. Symptoms can range in severity from a mild annoyance to severe pain that interferes with normal activities.
Menstrual cramps are the leading cause of absenteeism in women younger than 30 years. Although over half of women who have menstrual periods experience some discomfort, 10% are temporarily disabled by symptoms.
The following circumstances may make a woman more likely to experience menstrual cramps:
- She started her first period at an early age (younger than 11 years).
- Her menstrual periods last 5 days or longer.
- She is overweight or obese.
- She smokes cigarettes or uses alcohol.
- She has never been pregnant.
Menstrual Cramps Causes
Prostaglandins are c...
Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape
Premenstrual Syndrome »
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent luteal phase condition characterized by physical, psychological, and behavioral changes of sufficient severity to result in deterioration of interpersonal relationships and normal activity.
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