Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the emotional and physical symptoms that some people get before their period.
- Most of the time PMS can be easily managed.
- Most people will have at least one symptom in the lead-up to their period.
On this page
What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the physical and emotional symptoms some people experience one or 2 weeks before their period. PMS symptoms usually ease when your period starts.
Many people have one or 2 premenstrual symptoms. Most of the time these can be easily managed.
If you have severe emotional and mood-related symptoms before your period, it may be premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD affects about 3% to 8% of people. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
Symptoms of PMS
Everyone experiences PMS differently. And symptoms can change each menstrual cycle.
Common physical symptoms include:
- cramping in the pelvic area
- breast tenderness or swelling
- abdominal bloating
- fluid retention
- acne.
You may also experience:
- aches and pains
- headaches
- constipation, diarrhoea, or both
- poor sleep and tiredness.
Symptoms can also be emotional, for example:
- irritability
- anxiety
- lower ability to cope
- mood changes
- sadness
- trouble with concentration and memory.
PMS symptoms can be worse in teenage years and in the lead-up to menopause, which may be due to changes in hormone levels.
What causes PMS?
It’s not clear why some people have PMS, but it may be associated with how certain chemicals in the brain interact with the hormone progesterone.
Other factors can influence PMS. For example:
- physical and emotional mental health
- stress levels
- lifestyle.
Managing PMS
There are many things you can do to manage PMS.
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can help reduce PMS symptoms. You can stay healthy by:
- doing about 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days
- eating a balanced diet including fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, lean protein, and dairy
- drinking lots of water and reduce sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks
- doing things you enjoy
- trying relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation
- getting enough sleep and rest.
Medicine and hormone treatments
Your doctor may recommend different medicines. For example:
- hormonal treatments to stop ovulation
- antidepressants or anti-inflammatories to help with some symptoms.
Natural therapies
Natural therapies are part of a broad range of complementary and alternative medicines and therapies (CAM).
Many people use complementary therapies such as acupuncture, naturopathy and herbs to help manage PMS symptoms. But more research is needed to understand how effective these therapies are.
Supplements commonly used to manage PMS include:
- calcium
- vitamin B6
- chaste tree (also called ‘chaste berry’)
- magnesium
- evening primrose oil.
Make sure you get advice from a qualified and experienced health practitioner before using complementary therapies. Always tell your GP (doctor) if you are taking any complementary medicines, as they can affect other medicines.
When to see your doctor
See your doctor if:
- PMS symptoms are bothering you
- symptoms continue despite lifestyle changes
- you have severe emotional and mood related symptoms
- medicine or hormonal treatments don't improve your symptoms
- symptoms stop you from doing things you normally do.
More information
For more detailed information, related resources, articles and podcasts, visit Jean Hailes for Women's Health.
Where to get help
- GP (doctor)
- A local women's health clinic
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health
- Sexual Health Victoria (SHV).
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), 2018, Mayo Clinic, USA.
- Premenstrual Syndrome, Monash University, Public Health and Preventative Medicine
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