PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is a real condition caused by the body's response to a normal menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is brought on by changing levels of hormones (chemical messengers) in the body. In some women, normal hormone changes are linked to decreases in serotonin, a brain chemical that improves mood. These changes lead to PMS symptoms each month.
During the menstrual cycle, a series of hormone changes prepare a woman's body for pregnancy. The ovaries make hormones, which include estrogen and progesterone. Throughout the cycle, the levels of these hormones change. This causes the lining of the uterus (womb) to thicken. Hormone changes also lead to ovulation (release of an egg). If a woman doesn't become pregnant, her body sheds the thickened lining and the egg during the menstrual period. For many women, the menstrual cycle lasts 4 weeks (28 days). Some women have shorter cycles. Others have longer ones. No matter how many days your cycle is, you can have PMS only if you ovulate.
No one knows why some women have PMS and others don't. But PMS symptoms are closely linked to changing levels of estrogen, serotonin, and progesterone.
Estrogen rises during the first half of the menstrual cycle and drops during the second half. In some women, serotonin levels stay mostly steady. But in women with PMS, serotonin drops as estrogen drops. This means serotonin is lowest in the 2 weeks before the period. Women with low serotonin levels are likely to have symptoms of PMS.
Progesterone can have a "calming" effect on the body. This can ease physical symptoms caused by the body's monthly changes. In women with PMS, progesterone may not have this calming effect. This may make symptoms more severe.
Physical Symptoms
Bloating (retaining water)
Breast tenderness
Food cravings
Muscle aches
Swelling of hands and feet
Appetite changes
Headache
Feeling tired
Emotional Symptoms
Mood swings
Depression
Crying spells
Irritability
Oversensitivity
Withdrawing from friends and family
Forgetfulness
Having trouble concentrating
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