What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle. PMS symptoms occur in the week or two weeks before your period (menstruation or monthly bleeding). The symptoms usually go away after your period starts. PMS can affect menstruating women of any age. It is also different for each woman. PMS may be just a monthly bother or it may be so severe that it makes it hard to even get through the day. Monthly periods stop during menopause, bringing an end to PMS.
PMS is linked to poor diet, lack of exercise and hormonal imbalances involving estrogen excess, an excess or deficiency in progesterone, thyroid imbalances, and high levels of adrenal hormones. Some research suggests that increased estrogen is associated with decreased serotonin, the “feel good” hormone. Serotonin helps to regulate mood and a deficiency is linked to depression. Deficiencies or excess prostaglandins can also lead to PMS symptoms. Deficiencies in nutrients such as magnesium, vitamins A and E and B-complex, particularly B6, can also be a factor in PMS. Those with PMS often eat more refined sugars, carbohydrates, salt and dairy products. Vegetarian women tend to experience less PMS, suggesting a link with meat and dairy consumption (they contain high levels of xenoestrogens). Women who suffer from PMS also tend to have low levels of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and other essential fats.
Definition: Premenstrual syndrome, often called PMS, is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. In order for a diagnosis of PMS to occur, physical and/ or emotional symptoms must consistently appear during the last week before the onset of menstruation and disappear shortly after menstruation begins. The symptoms of PMS must also interfere with routine daily living, according to Contemporary Issues in Gynecology Vol. 2.