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What is it about ?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to all the physical (eg, tender breasts, swollen belly) and / or emotional (eg, irritability, fatigue) symptoms that appear just before menstruation. The complaints are sometimes so serious that they interfere with normal functioning.
We talk about PMS when at least one emotional symptom and one physical symptom are present for 5 days before the onset of menstruation. Symptoms disappear 3-4 days after the start of menstruation and return no earlier than day 13 of the menstrual cycle (day 1 of the menstrual cycle is the first day of menstruation).
So, a woman with symptoms that worsen before her period, but is also present throughout the cycle, does not have PMS.
Where and how often?
PMS affects approximately 1 in 4 women, severe PMS approximately 1 in 13. It mainly affects women between the ages of 30 and 40.
How to recognize it?
You experience emotional and / or physical symptoms a few days before your period and they interfere with your normal functioning. You may suffer from irritability, depressed mood, mood swings, tantrums, confusion, concentration problems, fatigue, insomnia, changes in appetite, etc.
The physical inconveniences can be the following: tender breasts, headaches, swollen limbs and stomach (water retention (edema)), various pains, etc.
How is the diagnosis made?
When the emotional and / or physical symptoms are related to menstruation, the doctor will usually think of PMS. If in doubt, your doctor may ask you to keep a symptom diary for 2 to 3 menstrual cycles in a row.
The doctor may perform a pelvic exam and examine your breasts. Blood tests are only used to rule out diseases that have the same symptoms (eg an underactive thyroid). The doctor will also ask you questions to find out if you are not suffering from depression.
What can you do ?
Some tips that you can put into practice include moving more or avoiding coffee, alcohol and stress. These measures can reduce complaints. Taking a hot bath, getting enough sleep, and slowing down a bit for a few days can also help.
What can your doctor do?
The doctor will reassure you; your complaints are related to normal hormonal function. The classic birth control pill prevents ovulation and may alleviate symptoms in some women. The hormonal IUD is also a possible option. If you have very serious complaints, antidepressant or hormonal treatment will sometimes be tried.
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