While there is a lot of information about Premenstrual syndrome on the internet, it sometimes gets overwhelming. Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about PMS in the simplest way possible.
Can PMS be treated?
Treatment of PMS depends upon the severity of symptoms. If your symptoms are mild to moderate, they can be simply treated by lifestyle modifications, but if your symptoms are severe, medical advice should be considered.
How is PMS diagnosed?
To confirm PMS diagnosis, your gynecologist may ask you to keep a record of your PMS symptoms. Record your symptoms each day for at least 2 to 3 months, write down and rate any PMS symptoms you feel. Record the dates of your periods as well.
At what age does PMS start?
PMS can begin at any time after you begin menstruating, but it tends to get worse in your late 30s and 40s when you're in perimenopause, the transition to menopause.
What triggers bad PMS symptoms?
The exact cause of PMS is unknown, but it is believed that hormonal swings may play a role. And so can fluctuations in the brain chemical serotonin, which could trigger changes in mood, cravings, sleep, and energy levels. Depression may be a cause as well, especially in cases of PMDD, a more severe form of PMS.
What relaxation methods can help reduce symptoms of PMS?
Deep breathing exercises, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation technique, and yoga are few relaxation exercises which can help you overcome PMS symptoms.
Can PMS make other conditions worse?
In addition to depression and anxiety, symptoms of other disorders can get worse right before your period. Examples include seizure disorders, migraines, asthma, and allergies.
Can other conditions mimic PMS?
Symptoms of some other disease like depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, thyroid disease can sometimes mimic or overlap with the symptoms of PMS. Keeping a record of your PMS symptoms can help your doctor decide if you have PMS or any other conditions. The only way to differentiate PMS from other conditions is its cyclic occurrence.
How does PMS occur for people diagnosed with PCOD and fibroids?
PMS symptoms are likely to be severe if there is an underlying reproductive health condition like PCOS, uterine fibroids or endometriosis.
Can dietary supplements help with PMS relief?
Taking 1,200 milligrams (mg) of calcium a day can help reduce the physical and mood symptoms that are part of PMS. Taking magnesium supplements may help reduce water retention ("bloating"), breast tenderness, and mood symptoms. It is important to talk with your ob-gyn before taking any PMS product or supplement. Taking excess amounts of them or taking them with some medications may be harmful.
Can exercise help reduce PMS symptoms?
For many women, regular aerobic exercise lessens PMS symptoms. It may reduce fatigue and depression. Aerobic exercise, which includes brisk walking, running, cycling, and swimming, increases your heart rate and lung function. Exercise regularly, not just during the days that you have symptoms. A good goal is at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) [Internet]. Washington, DC: ACOG; [cited 2025 Apr 23]. Available from:
