AN OVERVIEW ON PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME

Abstract

In the weeks leading up to menstruation, the majority of women of reproductive age experience some physical discomfort or distress. Although symptoms are frequently not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily activities, they can be. Thus, severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects 5–8% of women; the majority of these individuals also match the criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The most bothersome symptoms are those that affect mood and behaviour, such as irritability, tension, depression, weepiness, and mood swings, however physical issues like breast soreness and bloating can also be a concern. We discuss two basic treatments for severe PMS: one that targets the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis and the other that targets brain serotonergic synapses. We also present theories regarding the underlying causes of severe PMS. The symptoms are caused by fluctuations in gonadal hormone levels, hence treatments that stop ovarian cyclicity, such as long acting analogues of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or oestradiol (given as patches or implants), can successfully diminish the symptoms. It is also widely known that serotonin reuptake inhibitors, whether used continuously or just during luteal stages, are helpful.