Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - Symptoms 

There are many different symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which can vary from person to person and change slightly every month.

For example, you may find that you have similar PMS symptoms every month but they vary in intensity. Or you may have slightly different symptoms every few months. PMS tends to be different for every woman.

The symptoms of PMS usually happen at the same time in your menstrual cycle each month, which can be up to two weeks before your period starts. They usually improve once your period has started, and then disappear until your cycle starts again.

Common symptoms

More than 100 different symptoms of PMS have been recorded, but the most common are listed below.

Physical PMS symptoms

• fluid retention and feeling bloated
• pain and discomfort in your abdomen (tummy)
• headaches 
• changes to your skin and hair
• backache
• muscle and joint pain
• breast tenderness
• insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• dizziness
• tiredness
• nausea
• weight gain (up to 1kg)

Psychological PMS symptoms

• mood swings
• feeling upset or emotional
• feeling irritable or angry
• depressed mood
• crying and tearfulness
• anxiety 
• difficulty concentrating
• confusion and forgetfulness
• restlessness
• decreased self-esteem

Behavioural PMS symptoms

• loss of libido (loss of interest in sex)
• appetite changes or food cravings

Any chronic (long-term) illnesses, such as asthma or migraine, may get worse.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

While most women with PMS find their symptoms uncomfortable, a small percentage have symptoms that are severe enough to stop them living their normal lives. This is due to a more intense type of PMS, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

The symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS, but more exaggerated and often have more psychological symptoms than physical ones. They can include:

• feelings of hopelessness
• persistent sadness or depression
• extreme anger and anxiety
• decreased interest in usual activities
• sleeping much more or less than usual
• very low self-esteem
• extreme tension and irritability

As depression is a common symptom of PMDD, it is possible that a woman with PMDD may have thoughts about suicide.

PMDD can be particularly difficult to deal with because it can have a negative effect on your daily life and relationships. See your GP if you are experiencing severe symptoms.

Read more about treating PMS and PMDD.