Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, describes symptoms that show up before your period. Symptoms can be based on emotions such as irritability or depression, or you may have physical symptoms like breast pain or bloating. These symptoms usually arise one to two weeks before you start your period and return at the same time each month.

What is the difference between PMS and PMDD?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe and potentially debilitating form of PMS. Around 2% of people who menstruate have PMDD. With PMDD, you experience PMS symptoms but with much more intensity, especially when it comes to emotional responses and your mood. You’re more likely to experience anger, severe depression and anxiety with PMDD than with PMS.

How common is PMS?

Although it’s common to have one or a few premenstrual symptoms, clinically significant PMS occurs in only 3% to 8% percent of people who menstruate.