Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): An Enigma

Abstract

Brinderjeet Kaur

Many women in their reproductive years experience cyclical physical, emotional & psychological symptoms in the week prior to menses or during luteal phase of menstrual cycle. PMS affects about 5-8 % of women and most of them meet the criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The etiology remains unknown and is complex and multifactorial. The diagnosis of PMS is solely based on signs and symptoms and no specific diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. Numerous treatment modalities are available but only few are supported by clinical evidence. The article describes the disorder, with brief account of the theories for the underlying causes of PMS. It discusses the array of non pharmacological and pharmacological strategies available with stress on individualized treatment according to symptom profile.

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