Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Definition & Perimenopause

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Also known as: PMS, Premenstrual tension

A group of physical and emotional symptoms — such as mood changes, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness — that occur in the days before a period. PMS can intensify during perimenopause as hormones fluctuate more widely.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical and emotional symptoms — mood swings, irritability, low mood, bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue — that appear in the one to two weeks before a period and ease once it starts.

During perimenopause, fluctuating estrogen and progesterone can make PMS — or its more severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) — feel worse for some women, with stronger mood swings and irritability.

Lifestyle steps (regular exercise, sleep, limiting caffeine and alcohol) help many people, and a clinician can advise on further options if symptoms disrupt your life.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

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