Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a group of unpleasant symptoms linked to a woman's menstrual cycle, typically occurring one to two weeks before the menstrual period begins. PMS symptoms vary widely among women and range in severity from mild to debilitating. PMS typically includes physical and emotional symptoms.
Some of the most common symptoms of PMS include
- abdominal pain,
- pelvic pain,
- mood changes,
- tiredness,
- anxiety,
- headache,
- backache,
- depression,
- bloating or abdominal fullness, and
- constipation or diarrhea.
Other symptoms often reported are
- joint pain,
- sleep disturbances,
- appetite changes,
- food cravings,
- tension,
- crying spells, and
- tenderness or pain in the breasts.
Sometimes women who suffer from PMS note that they have difficulty concentrating or problems with memory when symptoms are present.
Causes of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
The exact cause of PMS is unknown but may be related to interactions between sex hormones and brain chemicals (neurotransmitters).
Other pms (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Cramping
- Abdominal Fullness
- Abdominal Pain
- Acne
- Anxiety
- Appetite Changes
- Back Pain
- Bloating
- Breast Pain
- Breast Tenderness
- Constipation
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Fatigue
- Food Cravings
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Joint Pain
- Loss of Appetite
- Memory Problems
- Mood Changes
- Nausea
- Pelvic Pain
- Sleep Disturbances
- Vomiting
- Weight Gain
Main Article on PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) Symptoms and Signs

SLIDESHOW
Pelvic Pain: What's Causing Your Pelvic Pain? See SlideshowPictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
-
Pelvic Pain: What's Causing Your Pelvic Pain?
There are many causes of pelvic pain in women including cysts, PMS, appendicitis, and bladder infections. Pelvic pain has...
-
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) - Test Your IQ of Women's Health
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can be serious and debilitating for some women. The good news is that women do not have to...
-
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Track and Prevent Symptoms
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can cause from mood swings, munchies, and more. Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatments of...
Examples of Medications for PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) Symptoms and Signs
From 
Women's Conditions Resources
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Women's Health Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.