The majority of women experience premenstrual syndrome or PMS at some point during their lives. PMS is an umbrella term used to describe a large number of symptoms women may experience during the premenstrual part of their monthly cycles. While all women undergo monthly hormonal changes that can cause various premenstrual symptoms, some women do not experience these symptoms. In women who experience symptoms, they can range from mild to severe enough to interfere with normal daily activities. Many women may have PMS symptoms that vary greatly in intensity and duration from one month to the next. Stress worsens PMS symptoms in many women.

A woman with PMS may undergo mood swings or become anxious or depressed. Irritability or decreased concentration may also occur. Sometimes, these symptoms may become severe enough to need medical attention and medication. Emotional symptoms also contribute to certain behaviors, such as aggression or withdrawal from normal social interaction with people one is close to.

Physical symptoms can also occur and may vary greatly in severity. Breast tenderness, bloating, and weight gain are common. Increased pain sensitivity and specific hormonal changes may lead to breast tenderness, abdominal cramps, backaches, headaches, migraines, and joint or muscle pain. There may be changes in sleep and bowel patterns. Fatigue and decreased sexual desire may also be reported. Certain food cravings may lead to overeating.

An extreme form of PMS is called premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD. A woman may feel like she has lost control over her life or suffer from a sense of hopelessness or guilt. These negative feelings may lead to a complete withdrawal from friends and family and may even result in an inability to cope with one�s work routine. Women with PMDD should seek medical attention to alleviate their symptoms.