Premenstrual Disorders

Some PMS Facts

• Even though estrogen, which has an impact on brain chemicals by affecting moods and energy levels, is high during the first half of the menstrual cycle and progester- one, which seems to overpower these same brain chemi- cals, is high during the last half of the cycle, there is no proof that the hormones directly affect PMS symptoms. In fact, when women are tested they have normal hor- mone levels. • If women do not treat PMS symptoms, they often get worse. • Some women experience symptoms at the time of ovula- tion for just a day or two and then have a week with no symptoms at all, followed by PMS disturbances the week or two before their menses start. • Caffeine is a major problem in PMS symptoms. Coffee and chocolate are the major offenders, but caffeine is also found in soft drinks and tea. • The largest group of women who seek treatment for the symptoms of PMS are between the ages of 30 and 40; they are usually mothers of two or more children. • If your mother has PMS, you are more likely to suffer from PMS symptoms. • Many women report that their PMS symptoms worsen with age. • Depressed women and those with other mental illnesses are more likely to suffer, and the symptoms of their illness are more likely to be aggravated. • Sometimes after pelvic surgery, ovarian surgery, or a hys- terectomy, PMS symptoms worsen.

Adapted from Tracy Chutorian Semler’s All About Eve.

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DeFining Premenstrual Syndrome