Introduction

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the name given to the physical, psychological and behavioural symptoms that can occur in the two weeks before a woman's monthly period. It's also known as premenstrual tension (PMT). There are many different symptoms of PMS, but typical examples are: bloating breast pain mood swings feeling irritable Loss of libido These symptoms usually improve when your period starts and disappear a few days afterwards. Nearly all women of childbearing age have some premenstrual symptoms, but women in theirlate 20sto theirearly 40s are most likely to experience PMS. Around 1 in every 20 women have symptoms that are severe enough to stop them living their normal lives. This is often the result of a more intense type of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). However, it's thought to be linked to the changing levels of hormones in the body during a woman's menstrual cycle. The fact that PMS improves during pregnancy and after the menopause , when hormone levels are stable, supports this theory. Certain lifestyle factors are also thought to aggravate the symptoms of PMS, including: lack of exercise and being overweight stress a poor diet Read moreabout the causes of PMS . Managing PMS symptoms Certain lifestyle changes may helpyou managePMS if your symptoms aren't severe. These include: a healthy diet regular exercise to improve your health and fitness learning techniquestohelp relievestress regular sleep Psychological therapy or hormone medications may be recommended in more severe cases. .