Conditions InDepth: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

En Español (Spanish Version)

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical and emotional symptoms that happen 1 to 2 weeks before a menstrual period. These problems ease with menstruation. Symptoms vary from woman to woman. They may get in the way of daily activities.

The Menstrual Flow
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Some women with PMS have a severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It can cause severe problems with function.

• What are the risk factors for premenstrual syndrome? • What are the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome? • How is premenstrual syndrome diagnosed? • What are the treatments for premenstrual syndrome? • Are there screening tests for premenstrual syndrome? • How do I reduce my risk of premenstrual syndrome? • What questions should I ask my doctor? • Where can I get more information about premenstrual syndrome?

REFERENCES:

Premenstrual syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/premenstrual-syndrome. Updated August 22, 2019. Accessed January 16, 2020.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) fact sheet. Office on Women's Health website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated March 16, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
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Updated July 25, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.

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Last reviewed September 2019 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Elliot M. Levine, MD, FACOG
Last Updated: 1/22/2021

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