Premenstrual Syndrome

By. Brittany List

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, refers to the symptoms an ovulating women experience a week or two before their period begins. Some women experience little to no symptoms at all, while others have symptoms so severe they miss out on work or other events. Some common symptoms include mood swings, swollen breasts, cramping, weight fluctuations, bloating, headaches, fatigue, depression, and/or acne. As you can see there are both physical and psychological symptoms of PMS.

The reason for PMS is the fluctuation in hormone levels during a women's cycle. Specifically the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen drops significantly which can affect a women's serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is that feel-good happy chemical we all have.

Treatment for PMS can include OTC pain meds to reduce the pain of headaches or cramping. A doctor may prescribe birth control pills to help keep hormone levels more balanced. Sometimes if symptoms are severe a doctor may prescribe an anti-depressant or anti-anxiety. However, a good diet, adequate sleep, and exercise are all foundational treatment options that should be incorporated into a women's lifestyle.

References:

https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome

https://www.webmd.com/women/pms/ss/slideshow-premenstrual-syndrome-pms

https://www.acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/gynecologic-problems/premenstrual-syndrome