Premenstrual Syndrome, also known as PMS, Premenstrual Tension (PMT) or Premenstrual Disorder (PMD). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is the term used if it is severe.

Premenstrual syndrome is when a woman gets unpleasant physical or emotional symptoms regularly in the 2 weeks before her period, but not at other times in her cycle. It’s only diagnosed after other medical conditions are excluded. It’s common- about 40% of women are affected by Premenstrual Syndrome. Symptoms often include a bloated tummy, feeling irritable or angry, tender painful breasts and pain in the joints and muscles. Other less common symptoms include headaches, weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, excessive hunger, cravings, tiredness, tearfulness, disrupted sleep, loss of concentration, anxiety, depression and confusion.

Treatment options include increasing exercise, the combined oral contraceptive pill, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine, a type of antidepressant called an SSRI, painkillers, and less commonly diuretics (water tablets) may be used to help with swelling.