Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
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.
Next: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Causes » Viewer Comments & ReviewsPremenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective TreatmentsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:
What kinds of treatments have been effective for your premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? |
VIVELLE-DOT (estradiol transdermal system) IS AVAILABLE BY PRESCRIPTION ONLY.
INDICATION
Vivelle-Dot is used after menopause to: reduce moderate to severe hot flashes; treat moderate to severe dryness, itching and burning in or around the vagina; help reduce your chances of getting osteoporosis (thin weak bones); and treat certain conditions in which a young woman's ovaries do not produce enough estrogens naturally. Vivelle-Dot 0.025 mg/day is only used to prevent osteoporosis from menopause. If you use Vivelle-Dot only to treat your dryness, itching, and burning in and around your vagina or if you use Vivelle-Dot only to prevent osteoporosis from menopause, talk with your healthcare professional about whether a different treatment or medicine without estrogens might be better for you.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Estrogens increase the chances of getting cancer of the uterus (womb). Report any unusual vaginal bleeding right away while you are taking estrogens. Vaginal bleeding after menopause may be a warning sign of cancer of the uterus (womb).
Do not use estrogens with or without progestins to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes. Using estrogens with or without progestins may increase your chances of getting heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, and blood clots. Using estrogens with progestins may increase your risk of dementia (decline in memory and thinking skills).
Vivelle-Dot should not be used if you have unusual vaginal bleeding; currently have or have had certain cancers, including cancer of the breast or uterus; had a stroke or heart attack in the recent past (for example, in the past year); currently have or have had blood clots; currently have or have had liver problems; or think you may be, or know that you are, pregnant.
The most common side effects that may occur with Vivelle-Dot are headache, breast tenderness, and back pain.
You and your healthcare professional should talk regularly about whether you still need treatment with Vivelle-Dot.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please see Full Prescribing Information for Vivelle-Dot.
Women's Health
Find out what women really need.
From WebMD
Women's Health Resources
- Blemish Blasters: Tips for Acne-Free Skin
- Your Baby's Growth: Normal or Not?
- Yeast Infections: Check Your Symptoms
Featured Centers
- Smile Fixes: Whitening, Dentures, and More
- How Bad Is Your Diet? Assess Yourself
- 12 Tips to Stay Awake Naturally
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Acne Overview
Acne is a red, irritating skin rash primarily affecting teenagers and young adults. It can, however, occur at all ages. Typical acne appears in the oil-producing areas of the body-namely, the face, chest, and back. Acne can also occur on the neck and upper arms.
Acne can have a short-term, potentially lasting psychological effect. Decreased self-esteem and self-confidence can lead to social withdrawal and even depression. Left untreated, severe acne can lead to disfiguring scarring, which can itself be difficult to treat.
- Several myths exist about acne.
- Acne is not a result of uncleanliness or infrequent
washing. In other words, acne does not result from too much dirt on the skin
or in the pores. Too much scrubbing may actually make acne worse.
- Acne does not come from eating a lot of so-called bad foods such as chocolate or fried foods. No foods cause acne or make it worse.
- Acne is not a result of uncleanliness or infrequent
washing. In other words, acne does not result from too much dirt on the skin
or in the pores. Too much scrubbing may actually make acne worse.
Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine
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.



