Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

PMS is defined by a group of symptoms that occur one or two weeks before getting a period. Most women have at least some symptoms of PMS, and the symptoms go away after their periods start. For some women, the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with their lives. (This is a type of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD.) Some common PMS symptoms include:

  • Breast swelling and tenderness
  • Acne
  • Bloating and weight gain
  • Pain (headache or joint pain)
  • Food cravings
  • Irritability, mood swings, crying spells, depression
No one knows what causes PMS, but hormonal changes trigger the symptoms. Unfortunately, no single PMS treatment will work for everyone. Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, aspirin, and so on) can help to better manage cramps, headaches, backaches, and breast tenderness. Other things that can help: avoid salt, caffeine, and alcohol exercise; and be sure to get enough sleep.
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Follow Us
from beyond babyzone:
Use a Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Your Facebook name, profile photo and other personal information you make public on Facebook (e.g., school, work, current city, age) will appear with your comment. Comments, together with personal information accompanying them, may be used on BabyZone.com and other Disney media platforms. Learn More.
Real-mom dispatches from the Baby Zone
watch more videos
X

more in BabyZone

10 Excitingly Exotic Baby Names
10 Excitingly Exotic Baby Names
read more >