Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Overview

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur after ovulation and disappear again when the period starts. Warm or cold compresses can help against the pain, and a healthy lifestyle can have a preventive effect.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

• Pain in the womb and breasts
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Digestive problems
• Lack of appetite or sudden cravings

Other symptoms

• Swollen legs and joints
• Weight gain
• Mood swings, irritability, nervousness
• Hot flashes
• Racing heart
• Insomnia, fatigue and reduced concentration
  

Causes and treatment

Causes

• Imbalance of sex hormones
• Psychological factors
• Genetic factors (family predisposition)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Ultrasound of ovaries and uterus (womb)
• Measurement of sex hormones
• Measurement of thyroid hormone

Possible therapies

• Contraceptive pill
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
  

What can I do myself?

• Hot water bottle or warm potato poultice for stomach ache
• Cooling compresses (e.g. quark) for breast tenderness
• Balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables
• Regular exercise
• Relaxation exercises (e.g. yoga, relaxing bath, taking a walk, etc.)

When to see a doctor?

• Premenstrual symptoms occur every month and
  • don’t get better
  • even get worse
  • have a debilitating effect on your everyday life

Synonyms

premenstrual syndrome, pms, pre-menstrual syndrome, menstrual cycle-dependent symptoms, menstrual cycle-related symptoms