2. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome, commonly referred to as
PMS, is categorised as a group of symptoms
linked to a woman’s menstrual cycle. PMS can
affect reproductive women of any age and
commonly occurs 1-2 weeks before the menstrual
cycle.
PMS is experienced at varying degrees; for some
women PMS is mild, for other women PMS is
severe. However for most women, PMS is relieved
by the onset of menses.
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 2
3. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
Signsa variety of symptoms women experience with PMS, and
There are
symptoms may vary from woman to woman. Symptoms include:
Acne
Swollen or tender breasts
Feeling tired
Trouble sleeping
Upset stomach, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
Headache or backache
Appetite changes or food cravings
Joint or muscle pain
Trouble with concentration or memory
Tension, irritability, mood swings, or crying spells
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 3
4. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
Signs
The patient may also demonstrate psychologically
symptoms include:
Depression
Anxiety
Irritability
Behavioral changes.
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 4
5. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS can increase with age; younger women
experience less episodes of PMS that that of
older women. Most medical complaints of
PMS is by women in their 30’s.
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 5
6. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
Assessment
Patient history
Physical examination
Depending on the symptom pattern, blood studies may be
required including:
Thyroid hormones
Glucose tests
Psychosocial evaluation is helpful to exclude emotional
illness that exasperates the symptoms.
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 6
7. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
Treatmentmay be required to make some lifestyle
The patient
changes to reduce symptoms including:
An integrated program of regular exercise 3-5 times each
week.
Reduce stress
Avoidance of caffeine
A diet emphasizing complex
Carbohydrates and increase water intake.
Foods high in simple sugars should be avoided
Limit intake of alcohol.
Stop smoking
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 7
8. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
Treatment
Vitamins and mineral supplements including:
Multivitamin daily
Vitamin E,400units daily
Calcium, 1,200mg daily
Magnesium, 200-400mg daily
Drug therapy (should be used cautiously):
NSAIDs taken a week prior to menses
Oral contraceptives ( low doses)
Antidepressants
Anxiolytics
Diuretics
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 8
9. Copyright 2013, State of Tasmania. This resource has been developed by
TasTAFE Health Services North. All content in this resource has been
produced by TasTAFE personnel and is made available to you for your
personal research and study. The content in this resource must not be redistributed or copied in any form.
Menstrual Disorders: PMS | Page 9
