PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS, is a cluster of physical and emotional symptoms experienced by many menstruating individuals in the days leading up to their menstrual period. While the exact cause of PMS remains unclear, hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, are believed to play a significant role in its development.

It’s common for women to notice signs indicating their period is approaching. For many, it’s manageable, marked by minor discomforts like tender breasts or cravings for sweets. However, for some, the days leading up to menstruation can pose significant challenges, potentially indicating premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Although menstruation is a natural aspect of life, experiencing disruptive symptoms before your period can affect your daily routine. PMS encompasses a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that typically emerge 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation and subside once your period begins or shortly thereafter.

Causes of Premenstrual syndrome

Hormonal fluctuations, especially changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, are considered the primary cause of PMS.
Serotonin levels may also influence PMS symptoms, as serotonin, a neurotransmitter, affects mood regulation and can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.

Prevalence

PMS affects a significant portion of menstruating individuals, with estimates suggesting that up to 75% experience at least some symptoms of PMS during their reproductive years.
The severity and prevalence of PMS symptoms can vary widely among individuals, with some experiencing mild symptoms while others may face more severe manifestations.

Symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome

Understanding whether you’re experiencing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can sometimes be challenging, as it varies from person to person and may change over time. However, certain signs and symptoms commonly associated with PMS include:

Physical Symptoms:
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Abdominal cramps or pelvic discomfort
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Increased appetite or food cravings
- Headaches or migraines
- Muscle aches or joint pain
- Swelling of the hands or feet
- Skin issues, such as acne or worsening of existing skin conditions
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
Emotional Symptoms:
- Mood swings, including irritability, anger, or sadness
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- Increased sensitivity to stress or emotional triggers
- Crying spells or tearfulness
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Insomnia or disturbances in sleep patterns
- Decreased interest in activities or social withdrawal
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Changes in appetite, eating patterns, or food preferences
- Cravings for certain foods, particularly sweet or high-carbohydrate foods
- Impaired cognitive function or memory difficulties
- Decreased motivation or productivity
- Avoidance of social interactions or withdrawal from social activities
- Tendency to forget things or become disorganized

While PMS can affect women of all ages who menstruate, it tends to be most common in individuals who:

Are in their late 20s to early 40s
Have given birth
Have a family history of depression
Have experienced postpartum depression (baby blues), depression, or bipolar disorder

It’s essential to consider the impact of these symptoms on your daily life and functioning. If they significantly interfere with your work, relationships, or overall well-being, it may indicate that you’re experiencing PMS. Tracking your symptoms in a journal or calendar can help you identify patterns and severity over time, providing valuable information for discussing with your healthcare provider.

Premenstrual syndrome risk Factors

The exact cause of PMS remains uncertain, although it’s a prevalent phenomenon among menstruating individuals. Researchers suggest that PMS may stem from fluctuations in body chemistry occurring in the lead-up to menstruation.

While certain conditions do not directly cause PMS, they can exacerbate its symptoms or trigger its onset. Factors that may contribute to the development or worsening of PMS include:

Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to an increased likelihood of experiencing PMS symptoms.
Stress: High levels of stress can intensify PMS symptoms, potentially exacerbating emotional and physical discomfort.
Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise may contribute to the severity of PMS symptoms. Engaging in physical activity can help alleviate some symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Inadequate Sleep: Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality may amplify PMS symptoms, including mood disturbances and fatigue.
Dietary Factors: Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, salt, red meat, or sugar has been associated with worsened PMS symptoms in some individuals.
Depression: Those with pre-existing depression may find that their symptoms worsen in the days leading up to menstruation.

Furthermore, women with certain health conditions may experience exacerbated symptoms of those conditions before their period. Examples include migraine headaches, asthma, and allergies, which may become more pronounced during the premenstrual phase.

While these factors may influence the severity of PMS symptoms, individual experiences vary, and not everyone will be affected in the same way.

Diagnosis of Premenstrual syndrome

There is no specific test for diagnosing PMS. Diagnosis is typically based on a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and menstrual cycle patterns. Keeping a symptom diary can be helpful in tracking symptoms and identifying patterns over several menstrual cycles.

Treatments for Premenstrual syndrome

While there isn’t a cure for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), there are various strategies and treatments available to manage its symptoms effectively. Here are some ways to manage PMS:

Medications:
- NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, acetaminophen, and aspirin can help relieve breast pain and menstrual cramps when taken during your period or around the time when symptoms start.
- Hormonal birth control: Birth control methods that prevent ovulation can alleviate physical symptoms like breast tenderness and pain. Options include birth control pills, patches, and the ring.
- Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine, paroxetine, and sertraline are commonly prescribed to address mood-related symptoms associated with PMS.
- Diuretics: These medications can help alleviate symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Regular exercise: Engaging in moderate cardiovascular exercise for at least 30 minutes a day can help reduce stress and improve mood.
- Healthy diet: Limiting intake of salty, fatty, and sugary foods, as well as caffeine and alcohol, can help manage symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals during your period may also be beneficial.
- Adequate sleep: Getting at least eight hours of sleep per night can help reduce irritability and stabilize mood.
- Relaxation exercises: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help alleviate stress and mood-related symptoms.
Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements:
- Calcium: Research suggests that calcium supplementation may improve symptoms such as fatigue, food cravings, and depression.
- Magnesium: While evidence is mixed, some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may help with headaches, stress, and anxiety.
- Vitamin B6: Studies have shown that vitamin B6 supplementation may improve mild to moderate PMS symptoms.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: These fatty acids found in fish, flaxseed, nuts, and leafy greens may help ease PMS symptoms.
- Herbal supplements: Some herbal remedies like black cohosh, chasteberry, and evening primrose oil are used to relieve PMS symptoms, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplements.

Home Care Tips

Managing PMS involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and possibly medication. Here are some strategies you can try to alleviate PMS symptoms:

Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, and alleviate physical discomfort associated with PMS.
Healthy Diet: Focus on consuming whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Ensure you’re getting enough calcium from sources like dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and canned salmon. Limit your intake of salt, caffeine, and alcohol, as these substances may exacerbate PMS symptoms.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking has been linked to increased PMS symptoms.
Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep each night, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep hygiene.
Stress Reduction: Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature. Engaging in activities you enjoy can also help reduce stress levels.
Journaling: Keep track of your moods and symptoms in a journal to identify patterns and triggers. This can help you better understand your symptoms and develop effective coping strategies.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen to alleviate physical discomfort associated with PMS. Follow the dosing instructions on the label carefully.
Supplements: Some women find relief from PMS symptoms by taking vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, magnesium, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, and calcium with vitamin D. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.
Herbal Remedies: Herbal remedies like chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) or evening primrose oil may offer relief for some women experiencing PMS symptoms. As with supplements, it’s crucial to discuss the use of herbal remedies with your doctor to determine their safety and efficacy for your individual situation.

Prevention

While it may not be possible to prevent PMS entirely, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, stress management techniques, and a balanced diet may help reduce the severity of symptoms. For individuals with severe PMS symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider to explore treatment options and develop a management plan may be beneficial.

When to See a Doctor

If PMS symptoms significantly interfere with daily activities or quality of life, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate management.Additionally, if new or unusual symptoms develop or if existing symptoms worsen, medical attention should be sought promptly to rule out other underlying health conditions.

Outlook/Prognosis

For most individuals, PMS symptoms are manageable with lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medical treatment. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to PMS and implementing strategies to address symptoms can help improve overall well-being and quality of life.

Sources

Mayo Clinic. (2022). Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).
National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
Harvard Health Publishing. (2019). Treating Premenstrual Syndrome.

PMS PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME