Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Management

What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that many women experience before their period. Usually, these symptoms appear one to two weeks before menstruation. For some, PMS can be mild. However, others may find it affects daily life. According to the CDC, PMS is common and can impact both physical and emotional health. Because PMS is so widespread, understanding it is important for many women and their families.

Common Symptoms of PMS

PMS symptoms can vary from person to person. Still, most women notice changes in their body or mood before their period. Below are some common PMS symptoms:

Feeling sad or irritable

Changes in appetite or food cravings

Breast tenderness or swelling

Bloating or weight gain

Trouble sleeping

Headaches or back pain

Tiredness or low energy

Difficulty focusing

Sometimes, symptoms can be severe. If you notice your symptoms are getting worse, it is important to seek help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors are not sure what causes PMS. However, changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle play a big role. For example, estrogen and progesterone rise and fall each month. These changes can affect mood and body functions. Other risk factors include:

Family history of PMS or depression

High stress levels

Unhealthy eating habits

Lack of physical activity

Smoking or alcohol use

Because every woman is different, not everyone with these risk factors will develop PMS.

How PMS is Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose PMS based on your symptoms and their timing. Usually, they will ask you to track your symptoms for at least two cycles. This helps show if symptoms appear before your period and go away after it starts. Sometimes, doctors may do tests to rule out other health problems. However, there is no single test for PMS. Keeping a symptom diary can help your doctor make a clear diagnosis.

Treatment and Management Options

There are many ways to manage PMS symptoms. Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are. Some common PMS treatment options include:

Over-the-counter pain relievers for cramps or headaches

Birth control pills to balance hormones

Antidepressants for severe mood symptoms

Supplements like calcium or vitamin B6 (ask your doctor first)

Counseling or therapy for emotional support

Because each woman is unique, your doctor can help you find the best treatment plan.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing PMS

Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. For example, regular exercise can help reduce stress and improve mood. Here are some helpful tips for managing PMS:

Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Limit salt, sugar, and caffeine

Stay active with daily walks or gentle exercise

Get enough sleep each night

Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga

Keep a symptom diary to track changes

Because small changes can add up, try adding one new habit at a time.

Prevention Strategies

While PMS cannot always be prevented, some steps may lower your risk. For instance, managing stress and eating well can help. Here are some prevention strategies:

Maintain a healthy weight

Exercise regularly

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Stay connected with friends and family for support

Even though PMS is common, these steps may help reduce symptoms or make them easier to manage.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, PMS symptoms can be severe or disrupt daily life. If you notice your symptoms are getting worse, or if they do not improve with home care, it is time to see a doctor. Also, if you feel very sad or have thoughts of harming yourself, seek help right away. Your doctor can offer support and suggest the best treatment for you.

For personalized advice on managing PMS, consult Dr. Dishaa Bansal. She can help you find the right plan for your needs.