What is premenstrual syndrome?
Most women experience some unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. For some women, the symptoms are significant, but of short duration and not disabling. Other women, however, may have one or more of a broad range of symptoms that temporarily disturb normal functioning. These symptoms may last from a few hours to many days. The types and intensity of symptoms vary in individuals. This group of symptoms is referred to as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Although the symptoms usually cease with onset of the menstrual period, in some women, symptoms may last through and after their menstrual periods.
Who is affected by PMS?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, nearly 85 percent of women, during their reproductive years, experience at least one of the common symptoms associated with PMS. It is estimated that 5 percent of women have symptoms so extreme that they are considered disabled by the condition.
In general, women most likely to experience PMS symptoms are between the ages of 20 and 40—and particularly women from this age group who have one child and have a history of depression in their family.
What are the symptoms of PMS?
The following are the most common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Psychological symptoms
Fluid retention
Respiratory problems
Eye complaints
| Gastrointestinal symptoms Skin problems
Neurologic and vascular symptoms
Other
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The symptoms of PMS may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a health care provider for diagnosis.
What causes PMS?
The cause of premenstrual syndrome is unclear, but seems to be related to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, and does not necessary denote disabled ovarian functioning. Social, cultural, biological, and psychological factors have been identified as possible contributors of PMS.
Preventing premenstrual syndrome symptoms
For some women, making simple lifestyle changes helps to reduce the occurrence of PMS symptoms. These changes may include:
Regular exercise (three to five times each week)
A well-balanced diet. It is generally recommended that women with PMS increase their intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruit, while decreasing their intake of salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.
Adequate sleep and rest
Not smoking
How to diagnose premenstrual syndrome
Aside from a complete medical history and physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures for PMS are currently very limited. Your health care provider may consider recommending a psychiatric evaluation to, more or less, provide a differential diagnosis (to rule out other possible conditions). In addition, he or she may ask that you keep a journal or diary of your symptoms for several months to better assess the timing, severity, onset, and duration of symptoms.
Treatment for PMS
Specific treatment for PMS will be determined by your health care provider based on:
Your age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the condition
Current symptoms
Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the condition
Your opinion or preference
