Every girl and young woman asks, “What is PMS?” during puberty and beyond. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects millions worldwide, and understanding its symptoms can help you manage the changes your body goes through every month.
What is PMS?
PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome—a set of physical and emotional symptoms many women experience about one week before their menstrual period starts. These symptoms usually begin roughly five days before your period and typically disappear once your bleeding begins. PMS affects both your body and your mind, with symptoms varying in intensity from person to person.
Common PMS Symptoms
- Approximately 75% of women experience one or more symptoms related to PMS, including:
- Cramps and abdominal discomfort
- Breast tenderness and swelling
- Bloating and weight gain
- Backaches and muscle pain
- Headaches or migraines
- Skin problems such as acne flare-ups
- Mood changes, like irritability, angry outbursts, or mild depression
What Causes PMS?
While the exact causes of PMS remain unclear, most experts agree that hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle play a key role. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels trigger the variety of symptoms experienced before menstruation.
Who Gets PMS?
According to experts such as the Mayo Clinic, about three-quarters of women and girls worldwide experience PMS symptoms at some point in their lives. So if you have PMS, remember—you are definitely not alone.
How to Manage PMS?
Though the severity varies, there are ways to reduce discomfort: maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, managing stress, and consulting your healthcare provider can all help ease symptoms
Sources:
- ACOG Pamphlet 57 on PMS
- Mayo Clinic: Premenstrual Syndrome
