What to Ask

Prep Required For The Doctor Visit

When PMS starts affecting your daily activities, one should definitely seek medical help. You should be prepared before going to the doctor to explain your symptoms well, which will ultimately help in the proper diagnosis.

What you can do

Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance to prepare.
Write down symptoms you're experiencing: Having proper knowledge of your symptoms is the key for a better diagnosis. Doctor may ask you to record your signs and symptoms for at least 2 menstrual cycles
- Note the days when you first notice PMS symptoms and the day they stop
- Note the days your period starts and ends
- Keep a record of the severity of symptoms
Make a list of your key medical information:
- Any past medical history, or any current condition you are being treated for.
- List of medications you are taking will be helpful.

Questions to ask your doctor and why?

For premenstrual syndrome, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

Regarding Symptom

Regarding Treatment

Is there anything I can do to minimize PMS symptoms?

Do you recommend treatment for PMS symptoms? What treatments are available?

Will my PMS symptoms eventually go away on their own?

How long will my treatment go on for?

Could the symptoms that I'm experiencing indicate a more serious medical condition?

Any side effects of the medications?

Does my parents/ me having mental health issues affect my condition?

Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?

Any foods I need to avoid?

Do I need to consult with a psychiatrist for my treatment?

References

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Prep Required For The Doctor Visit

What you can do

Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance to prepare.

Write down symptoms you're experiencing: Having proper knowledge of your symptoms is the key for a better diagnosis. Doctor may ask you to record your signs and symptoms for at least 2 menstrual cycles

Note the days when you first notice PMS symptoms and the day they stop
Note the days your period starts and ends
Keep a record of the severity of symptoms

Make a list of your key medical information:

Any past medical history, or any current condition you are being treated for.
List of medications you are taking will be helpful.

Questions to ask your doctor and why?

For premenstrual syndrome, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

Regarding Symptom

Regarding Treatment

Is there anything I can do to minimize PMS symptoms?

Do you recommend treatment for PMS symptoms? What treatments are available?

Will my PMS symptoms eventually go away on their own?

How long will my treatment go on for?

Could the symptoms that I'm experiencing indicate a more serious medical condition?

Any side effects of the medications?

Does my parents/ me having mental health issues affect my condition?

Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?

Any foods I need to avoid?

Do I need to consult with a psychiatrist for my treatment?

Don't hesitate to ask any other questions that occur to you during your appointment.

References

Mayo Clinic Staff. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – Diagnosis & treatment [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2025 Apr 23]. Available from: