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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/premenstrualsyndrome.html

Premenstrual Syndrome

Also called: PMS
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Summary

What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that start one to two weeks before your period. Most women have at least some symptoms of PMS, and the symptoms go away after their periods start. The symptoms may range from mild to severe.

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe type of PMS. With PMDD, the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your life. PMDD much less common than PMS.

What causes premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Researchers don't know exactly what causes PMS. Changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle may play a role. These changing hormone levels may affect some women more than others.

What are the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

PMS symptoms are different for everyone. You may get physical symptoms, emotional symptoms, or both. Your symptoms may also change throughout your life.

Physical symptoms may include:

Emotional symptoms may include:

  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Crying spells
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Trouble with concentration and memory
  • Less interest in sex

How is premenstrual syndrome (PMS) diagnosed?

You may wish to see your health care provider if your symptoms bother you or affect your daily life.

There is no single test for PMS. Your provider will talk with you about your symptoms, including when they happen and how much they affect your life. To be diagnosed with PMS, your symptoms must:

  • Happen in the five days before your period for at least three menstrual cycles in a row
  • End within four days after your period starts
  • Keep you from enjoying or doing some of your normal activities

Your provider may wish to do tests to rule out other conditions which may cause similar symptoms.

What are the treatments for premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

No single PMS treatment works for everyone. If your symptoms are not severe, you may be able to manage them with:

Some studies have shown that certain vitamins may help with some symptoms of PMS. They include calcium and vitamin B6.

Some women take certain herbal supplements for PMS symptoms. But there is not enough evidence to prove that supplements are effective for PMS. Check with your provider before taking any vitamins or supplements.

If you are not able to manage your PMS symptoms, your provider may suggest prescription medicines. These medicines may also be used to treat PMDD. They include:

  • Hormonal birth control, which may help with the physical symptoms of PMS. But sometimes they may make the emotional symptoms worse. You may need to try several different types of birth control before you find the right one.
  • Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may help with emotional symptoms.
  • Diuretics ("water pills") to reduce symptoms of bloating and breast tenderness.
  • Anti-anxiety medicine to ease symptoms of anxiety.

Dept. of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health

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Treatments and Therapies

  • Black Cohosh From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
  • Chasteberry From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)
  • Evening Primrose Oil From the National Institutes of Health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)

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The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.