Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) (a group of symptoms that recur each month in anticipation of menstruation and disappear when menstruation stops)

Emergent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?

Mentally distraught with thoughts of suicide, violent behavior or severely depressed

Yes No

Seek Immediate Medical Attention!
These symptoms can be life-threatening.

Women's Health - Did You Know?

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms recurs with each cycle about 7-10 days before the period begins

It is estimated that up to 50% of women suffer from PMS

Common physical symptoms include: breast swelling/tenderness, fatigue, food cravings, acne, diarrhea or constipation

Common emotional symptoms include: mood swings, sadness, anxiety, irritability, depression and crying

A symptom diary should be kept for a minimum of 3 months and brought to each medical appointment

The cause of PMS has not been established but several endocrine related theories exist

Urgent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?

Yes No

Contact Your Health Care Provider.

Self-Management - You can help in the following ways:

Reduce or avoid caffeine, sugar, salt, alcohol and dairy products for up to 1-2 weeks before period
Eat smaller (6 or more) frequent meals that are low fat, high fiber
Take supplements of vitamin B6 or magnesium
Engage in regular exercise or yoga to relieve symptoms and stress
Increase rest and get plenty of sleep
Take a hot bath or use a heating pad to relieve back and muscle aches
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for discomfort, if not contraindicated 1-2 days before start of period
Keep a diary of symptoms

Go Back

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

You do not get better, new symptoms appear, you are concerned in any way or you have questions.