Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

The physical and emotional changes during the few days before period felt by many women are called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Your doctor needs to confirm that your symptoms only happen in the last few days of the cycle, and they go away after menstruation. The symptoms also should be recorded for a period of 2-3 months. The common physical symptoms associated with PMS include breast tenderness, abdominal pain, swelling, fatigue, bloating, and weight gain. The common emotional PMS symptoms include anxiety, poor concentration, irritability, depression, and social withdrawal. Some lifestyle modifications that may help with your symptoms include aerobic exercise, massage therapy, and relaxation. Additionally, dietary modifications like calcium supplements might be beneficial. Medical therapy for PMS also may be used namely birth control pills, or certain antidepressants. If your symptoms are mild to moderate, they often can be relieved by changes in lifestyle or diet. If your PMS symptoms begin to interfere with your life, you may decide to seek medical treatment. Treatment will depend on how severe your symptoms are. In more severe cases, your health care provider may recommend medication. Talk with your health care provider about your symptoms and treatment options.