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Conditions InDepth: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

En Español (Spanish Version)

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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

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: http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/premenstrual-syndrome.html. Updated March 16, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome-pms.html. Updated July 25, 2018. Accessed January 16, 2020.

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

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