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Premenstrual Signs & Symptoms

An estimated 75 percent of all women experience premenstrual symptoms at one time or another. Of these, 3 to 8 percent have severe symptoms that interfere with their everyday lives, called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Premenstrual syndrome affects women during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, roughly seven to 10 days prior to when the menstrual period begins. Over 200 symptoms have been associated with PMS, according to the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, but some are more common and fall into the categories of physiologic, behavioral and psychological.

  1. Physiologic Symptoms

    • PMS was once considered solely a psychological problem, but now it is seen as physically based. The cause of all the symptoms is less clear. Hormonal imbalance and fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone is probably a major factor. Physiologic symptoms include abdominal bloating, back pain, breast pain, tenderness or swelling, headaches, skin eruptions, muscle aches, water retention and weight gain.

    Behavioral Symptoms

    • Women who behave normally at other times of the month may become aggressive when having PMS and may experience changes in sexual interest or dizziness. Fatigue is another common complaint. Even when tired, women may experience insomnia. Food cravings are common, as is overeating. PMS has also been linked to food allergies, hypoglycemia, malabsorption and changes and carbohydrate metabolism.

    Psychological Symptoms

    • A host of psychological symptoms can accompany PMS, including anxiety, anger, confusion, tearfulness and crying, decreased self-esteem and depressed mood, restlessness, tension and mood swings, loneliness, forgetfulness and irritability. You could also experience trouble concentrating. Most of these symptoms disappear within 2 or 3 days of the onset of the menstrual period.

    Lifestyle Remedies

    • The Life Extension Foundation, a non-profit research-based foundation, recommends the following nutritional supplements for assisting with PMS: calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin B6, vitamin E and GLA, found in evening primrose oil. Theanine, a chemical found in green tea, has a calming but mood-elevating effect. In addition, reducing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, sugar, high-fat dairy, animal fats and salt intake is helpful. Moderate exercise helps with symptoms. If progesterone levels are low, natural progesterone can be added for symptom control.

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