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Premenstrual bloating
Premenstrual bloating
Relieving PMS
Relieving PMS
Depression and the menstrual cycle
Depression and the menstrual cycle
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Premenstrual syndrome

Definition:
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a symptom or collection of symptoms that occurs regularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, with the onset of symptoms 5 to 11 days before the onset of menses and resolution of symptoms with menses or shortly thereafter.

Alternative Names:
PMS

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An exact cause of PMS has not been identified; however, it may be related to social, cultural, biological, and psychological factors. PMS can occur with apparently normal ovarian function (regular ovulatory cycles).

PMS is estimated to affect 70% to 90% of women during their childbearing years. Between 30% and 40% of women are thought to have PMS symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily living activities, and 10% are believed to have symptoms so severe they are considered disabling.

The incidence is higher in women between their late 20s and early 40s, those with at least one child, those with a family history of a major depression disorder, or women with a past medical history of either postpartum depression or an affective mood disorder.

As many as 50-60% of women with severe PMS have an underlying psychiatric disorder.

See also premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).



Review Date: 1/15/2002
Reviewed By: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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