PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

Each woman's symptoms are different and can vary from month to month, but most women have PMS (premenstrual syndrome) at some point. The most common symptoms of PMS include: mood swings feeling depressed or irritable feeling upset, anxious or emotional tiredness or trouble sleeping bloating or cramping breast tenderness headaches spotty skin greasy hair changes in appetite or food cravings

There are things you can try to help ease your PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms. Do exercise regularly eat a healthy, balanced diet – you may find eating frequent smaller meals every 2 to 3 hours better get plenty of sleep try reducing your stress by doing yoga or meditation take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to ease the pain keep a diary of your symptoms for at least 2 menstrual cycles – you can take this to a GP appointment Don’t do not smoke do not drink too much alcohol

If you have PMS (premenstrual syndrome), a GP may recommend other treatments as well as making lifestyle changes. These may include: hormonal medicine, such as the combined contraceptive pill cognitive behavioural therapy antidepressants If you still get symptoms after trying these treatments, you may be referred to a specialist. This could be a gynaecologist, psychiatrist or counsellor. Complementary therapies and dietary supplements for PMS (premenstrual syndrome) Complementary therapies and dietary supplements may help with PMS, but there's not much evidence that they work. These can include: acupuncture reflexology supplements such as vitamin B6, calcium, vitamin D and magnesium Important Check with a GP or pharmacist if you're also taking medicines before starting to take regular supplements.

It's not fully understood why women get PMS (premenstrual syndrome). But it may be because of changes in their hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Some women may be more affected by these changes than others.

A small number of women may experience more severe symptoms of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Symptoms of PMDD are similar to PMS, but are much more intense and can have a much greater negative impact on your everyday life. Symptoms can include: headaches and joint and muscle pain overeating and problems sleeping feeling very anxious, angry, depressed or suicidal It's not clear what causes PMDD, but it's been linked to being very sensitive to changes in hormones, or certain differences in the genes you inherit from your parents. Information: Find out more Where to get urgent help for mental health Mind: premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)