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Ency. home > Disease > P > Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Premenstrual tension; PMS; Premenstrual dysphoria

Definition:

A symptom or collection of symptoms that occurs regularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, with the onset of symptoms 5 to 11 days before the onset of menses and resolution of symptoms with menses or shortly thereafter.

Causes and Risks

An exact cause of PMS has not been identified; however, it may be related to social, cultural, biological, and psychological factors. PMS can occur with apparently normal ovarian function (regular ovulatory cycles).

PMS is estimated to affect 70% to 90% of women during their childbearing years. Between 30% to 40% of women are thought to have PMS symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily living activities, and 10% are believed to have symptoms so severe they are considered disabling.

The incidence is higher in women between their late 20s and early 40s, those with at least one child, those with a family history of a major depression disorder, or women with a past medical history of either post-partum depression or an affective mood disorder.

As many as 50-60% of women with severe PMS have an underlying psychiatric disorder. 

Ency. home > Disease > P > Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

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