Premenstrual syndrome Flashcards
Define premenstrual syndrome.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is characterised by cyclical, physical, and behavioural symptoms occurring in the luteal phase of the normal menstrual cycle.
What is the aetiology of premenstrual syndrome? What are risk factors for premenstrual syndrome?
PMS and PMDD occur in women with ovulatory cycles, and they do not occur before puberty or after menopause. This association implies a role of gonadal steroid hormones.
Family history
Mood disorders
Cigarette smoking
White women
Sexual abuse and/or trauma
Summarise the epidemiology of premenstrual syndrome.
Clinically significant PMS is thought to affect 3% to 8% of women, with a point prevalence of 20% to 30% in some studies.
Where are the signs and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome?
Abdominal bloating
Fatigue
Breast tenderness
Headaches
Depressed mood, irritability, and internal tension
Labile mood
Increased appetite
Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating
What investigations should be performed for premenstrual syndrome?
Symptom diary
Thyroid function tests
Follicle-stimulating hormone levels
Depression screening
What is the management of premenstrual syndrome?
Lifestyle modification
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Vitamin and mineral supplementation
Combined oral contraceptive (COC)
What is the prognosis of premenstrual syndrome?
There are no reports documenting spontaneous remission before the menopause. It is difficult to define spontaneous remission, because women could remit during pregnancy only for symptoms to return subsequent to pregnancy. Women with PMS/PMDD tend to suffer throughout their reproductive life.