Women's Health

The term premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the one or two weeks before the beginning of menstruation (the time in a woman’s monthly cycle when she bleeds, also known as a woman’s period). Sometimes PMS symptoms last a few days after menstrual bleeding starts. PMS has been

Experts say that the definitive cause of PMS is not yet known. However, the most likely explanation for PMS is that many women are sensitive to the hormonal shifts that occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle. What Hormones Cause PMS? PMS most often occurs in women with normal menstrual cycles. During the

Hormone levels in women with PMS are normal. So, there are no laboratory tests that determine if you have PMS. However, your doctor may do blood tests to determine if you have another problem besides PMS, such as a thyroid condition or early menopause (when menstruation stops, usually associated with aging). Keeping A Symptoms Calendar PMS

PMS is not your fault, and it does not indicate psychological weakness. It is not something to be embarrassed about. Studies have shown that women with PMS are psychologically healthy. You should consider treatment for PMS if you notice any of the following, especially during the one to two weeks before your period. Poor work

Many types of treatment are used to relieve symptoms of PMS. Most of them have not been scientifically proven to be effective, although they seem to help many women. Most researchers and clinicians suggest starting with lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and stress management. Over-the-counter and prescription medicines as well as non-drug treatments like

There are a number of prescription medicines used to treat PMS, including: Birth control pills. These may help relieve the physical symptoms of PMS in some women, but the results are variable. Because birth control pills contain high levels of an estrogen-like hormone and progesterone -like hormone, they actually may cause premenstrual symptoms in some women. Women who experience PMS while

Many women address their PMS by treating the symptoms that arise. Specific symptoms that are often addressed this way include: Headaches Cramps Mood Changes Appetite Bloating, Breast Tenderness and Weight Gain Headaches Headaches are a common symptom of PMS. Increased tension premenstrually may cause tension headaches. There is also a higher incidence of migraine headaches

PMS is not a psychological problem. However, normal life difficulties, such as work or relationship problems may seem more intense premenstrually. Ask your family and friends for support. Consider joining a PMS support group so that you can share experiences with other women who have similar problems. If your symptoms are creating major problems for

Here are some frequently asked questions related to premenstrual syndrome. Q: Do women with PMS have different hormone levels? A: No. Women with PMS do not have too little or too much estrogen or progesterone. Hormone levels in women with PMS are normal throughout the cycle, but the effects of the hormones are different depending on the woman. Q: Can PMS mimic other