What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a pattern of physical and emotional symptoms that appear in the luteal phase, usually 5 to 10 days before a period, and ease within a few days after bleeding starts. Common symptoms include irritability, low mood, bloating, sore breasts and tiredness. Most people who menstruate notice some symptoms; for some they disrupt daily life.
Common symptoms
| Emotional | Physical |
|---|---|
| Irritability or anger | Bloating |
| Low mood, tearfulness | Breast tenderness |
| Anxiety or tension | Headaches |
| Mood swings | Tiredness, poor sleep |
| Trouble concentrating | Food cravings, acne |
What causes it
PMS seems to come from a normal hormone pattern meeting a sensitive brain. After ovulation, progesterone and estrogen rise and then fall. In some people, that fall affects serotonin and calming brain chemicals linked to progesterone. Stress, poor sleep and alcohol can make symptoms worse.
PMS, PMDD and PME
When emotional symptoms are severe enough to disrupt work or relationships every cycle, it may be PMDD. When an existing condition like depression gets worse before a period, it's called premenstrual exacerbation.
What helps
Regular exercise, steady sleep, regular meals, calcium and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol help many people. For stronger symptoms, doctors may suggest CBT, some hormonal contraceptives or SSRIs. Read the full guide: what is PMS, or try our PMS self-check.
See a doctor if PMS stops you doing normal things, or if low mood lingers after your period ends.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between PMS and PMT?
None. Premenstrual tension (PMT) is an older British name for PMS.
How long does PMS last?
Usually from about a week before your period until a day or two after it starts. See how long PMS lasts.
Is PMS real?
Yes. It's well documented, with clear patterns in daily symptom studies.
Sources
- NHS: PMS (premenstrual syndrome)
- ACOG: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Office on Women's Health: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
What is PMS?What is PMS? Premenstrual syndrome is the mix of mood and body symptoms in the days before your period. What causes it, how common it is, and what helps.PMS mood swings: why they happen and what actually helpsTeary, snappy or anxious before your period? Why PMS mood swings happen in the luteal phase, what helps, and when it might be PMDD instead.
What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a severe, cyclical mood condition in the week or two before a period. Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
PMS test: do my symptoms follow my cycle?Free PMS test: rate 11 common premenstrual symptoms and see whether yours look like mild PMS, typical PMS or something worth raising with a doctor.
Premenstrual phase: definition and meaningThe premenstrual phase is the last 5 to 7 days of the luteal phase, right before your period. What hormones do then, common symptoms, and how to plan for it.