Premenstrual syndrome
There are many different symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), whichcan vary from person to person and change slightly every month.
You may have similar PMS symptoms every month that vary in intensity, or slightly different symptoms every few months. PMS tends to be different for every woman.
The symptoms of PMS usually happen at the same time in your menstrual cycle each month. Thiscan be up to two weeks before your Periods starts.
Symptoms usually improve once your period has started and disappear until your cycle starts again.
More than 100 different symptoms of PMS have been recorded. Some ofthe most common are listed below.
Anylong-term (chronic) illnesses, such as asthma or migraines , may get worse.
While most women with PMS find their symptoms uncomfortable, a small percentage have symptoms severe enough tostop them living their normal lives.
This is the result of a more intense type of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
The symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS, but are more exaggerated and often have more psychological symptoms than physical ones.
Symptomscan include:
As depression is a common symptom of PMDD, it's possible that a woman with PMDD may have thoughts about suicide .
PMDD can be particularly difficult to deal withas it can have a negative effect on your daily life and relationships.
It's normal to experience mild PMS symptoms in the two weeks before your period starts. However, you should see your GP if the symptoms are making everyday life difficult.
Your GP may ask you to use a diary to record how you're feeling each day in the run-up to your period.
You may have to do this for at least two or three months so your GP canspot any patterns in your symptoms.
PMDD is only diagnosed when your mood symptoms seriously affect your relationships and stop you functioning properly at work or school.
Your GP may refer you to a mental health specialist for further assessment and treatment if they think you have PMDD.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the name given to the range of symptoms that can occur in the two weeks before a woman's monthly period.
There are many different symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can vary from person to person and change slightly every month.
The exact cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is not fully understood, but there are a number of things that may contribute to the symptoms.
There is no cure for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but there are treatments that can help you manage your symptoms so they do not interfere with your daily life.