PMS, we’ve all heard about it and some have experienced it but many do not know much about it. Don’t let all the jokes society has come up with that revolve around PMS make you brush it off, it is a real medical condition. Let’s break the stereotypes and dive into some common PMS questions.
What is PMS and What Causes it?
PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome. It usually occurs in the time period after ovulation but before the beginning of menstruation. It has not been confirmed, but it is thought that PMS may be due to the levels of estrogen and progesterone dropping after ovulation occurs and no pregnancy has happened. Estrogen and progesterone levels begin to rise again after the menstrual period.
What are PMS Signs and Symptoms?
The symptoms of PMS will vary for each woman but common symptoms may include:
- Breasts that are swollen or tender
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Gas
- Bloating
- Headache
- Backache
- Clumsiness
- Low tolerance for noise or light
- Irritable
- Hostile behavior
- Fatigue
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Appetite changes
- Food cravings
- Trouble concentrating
- Poor Memory
- Tension
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sadness
- Mood swings
- Less interest in sex
- Social withdrawal
- Joint or muscle pain
- Weight gain
- Acne
Who Gets PMS?
Any female can experience PMS. The type and severity of PMS symptoms will vary for every woman. It is estimated that three out of every four women get PMS symptoms at some time during their life. PMS may occur more often in women with high-stress levels or a history of depression.
Can PMS be Treated?
Many women only experience mild symptoms of PMS and lifestyle modifications such as diet, vitamins, over-the-counter NSAIDs, improving sleep habits, stress relief, and exercise can help. Women who experience more severe symptoms that regularly affect their daily lives should see their healthcare provider. They may ask you to keep a journal to track symptoms over time. If lifestyle modifications do not work, they may recommend prescription medication to aid in improving PMS symptoms.
Resources
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) | Office on Women’s Health. (n.d.). Retrieved July 8, 2022
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, February 25). Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved July 8, 2022
Services We Offer:
Website Navigation:
Home | About | OB Videos | Insurances Accepted | Blog | Providers | Michael Anthony, MD, FACOG | Noemi Maydew, MD, FACOG | Anne Bond Bonpain, MD, FACOG | Elita Wyckoff, MD, FACOG | Gilberto Rodrigo, MD, FACOG | Jennifer Fraley, MD, FACOG | Heather Flowers | Courtney Braswell | Services | Patient Care | Advanced Care Team | Testimonials | Contact Us | Patient Portal
