What Is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Understanding what premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is matters—because those emotional and physical shifts before your period are real, common, and manageable.
📅 When It Happens
- PMS symptoms typically start **1–2 weeks before menstruation**, during the luteal phase, and resolve within a few days after your period begins.([turn0search16][turn0search5])
- These symptoms must occur consistently over at least two menstrual cycles and interfere with daily life to be diagnosed.([turn0search16])
🔍 Who It Affects
- Over **90%** of people who menstruate experience some PMS symptoms occasionally.([turn0search5])
- About **20% experience symptoms severe enough to disrupt daily activities**, while **3–8%** may have the more intense form—**Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)**.([turn0search0][turn0news10])
🤔 Why It Happens
- Exact causes are unclear—but hormone shifts (estrogen & progesterone) trigger changes in brain chemistry and serotonin levels, affecting mood and physical symptoms.([turn0search0][turn0search1])
- PMDD might stem from an increased sensitivity to these hormone fluctuations.([turn0search17])
😣 Common Symptoms
- Emotional: irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression, tearfulness, anger, social withdrawal, poor concentration.([turn0search1])
- Physical: breast tenderness, bloating, fatigue, headaches, cravings, cramps, acne, digestive issues.([turn0search1])
🛠 How to Manage PMS
- **Lifestyle changes** are key: reduce salt, caffeine, alcohol, and stress; add exercise, sleep, and structure.([turn0search16][turn0news12])
- Supplements like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium can help physical symptoms. NSAIDs like ibuprofen relieve pain.([turn0search16])
- If lifestyle changes aren't enough, **SSRIs** (especially for mood symptoms), **birth control pills**, or **CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)** may be effective—especially with PMDD.([turn0search16][turn0search17])
📊 Quick Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | 1–2 weeks before period; resolves after menstruation |
| Prevalence | 90%+ get mild symptoms; ~20% debilitating; 3–8% have PMDD |
| Symptoms | Emotional (mood, concentration) + physical (bloating, tenderness) |
| Management | Lifestyle, supplements, SSRIs, hormonal therapy, CBT |
🧠 Final Thoughts
PMS is a widespread and legitimate experience—not just "in your head." Its symptoms vary, but many sufferers find relief through simple lifestyle changes. For severe cases, especially PMDD, medical options can significantly improve quality of life. If PMS interferes with your daily routine, consulting a healthcare provider is the best next step.
Keyword: what is premenstrual syndrome