Changes in your body’s hormone levels before your period can cause physical and emotional changes. This is often known as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). A more severe form of PMS is known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
There are lots of different things you can do to help try and ease the symptoms of PMS. You can get help if it impacts your daily life.
There are many possible symptoms of PMS, but typical symptoms include:
These symptoms usually improve when your period starts and disappear a few days afterwards. PMS doesn’t affect all people who have periods. But some people can experience very severe symptoms that can affect their everyday life. It’s important you speak to your doctor if you feel you need help managing your symptoms.
PMS can occur at any point in your reproductive life – but can worsen during menopause.
It can be helpful to keep a note of your period dates and symptoms using a calendar, a diary or an app. You can then discuss this with your doctor who can decide if any tests or treatments might be needed.
If you’re seeing your doctor, there are some useful pieces of information to think about beforehand:
There are lots of different things you can do to help try and ease the symptoms of PMS:
Although PMS symptoms are normal, speak to your doctor if they’re affecting your day to day life. There are options and support available to help you, such as:
PMDD is another term that is used to describe severe PMS. It can occur at any time, but is more often experienced when periods start or during menopause. It’s a complex condition where you may experience difficulties with your mental health as well as physical symptoms.
Emotional symptoms can include:
Further information about mental health
Physical symptoms can include:
If you feel you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, speak to your doctor.
Last updated:
28 February 2023