16 PMS Symptoms You Should Know (w/ Symptom Checker)

Updated in March 2023
Dr. Sheila Sedicias
Medical review: Dr. Sheila Sedicias Gynecologist

PMS symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, increased appetite, back pain, difficulty concentration, water retention, increased breast sensitivity, acne and headache. These symptoms can vary from woman to woman, and may present more intense in some women than others. 

Symptoms of PMS usually emerge 5 to 10 days prior to menstruation and become more intense until a period starts. It is possible to experience more than one symptom at the same time. 

PMS symptoms occur due to fluctuations in hormone levels that commonly occur during this time. It is important to consult a gynecologist regarding symptoms that are intense and interfere with activities of daily living. 

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Main symptoms

The most common symptoms of PMS are: 

  1. Abdominal pain or cramping
  2. Bloating
  3. Breast pain or sensitivity 
  4. Nausea and vomiting
  5. Dizziness and fainting 
  6. Constipation or diarrhea 
  7. Acne
  8. Headaches or migraines 
  9. Increased desire for sweets 
  10. Insomnia or excess fatigue 
  11. Increased emotional sensitivity 
  12. Difficulty concentrating 
  13. Irritability or restlessness
  14. Tension and anxiety
  15. Weight gain due to fluid retention
  16. Back pain, particularly in the lumbar region 

Although they can be very uncomfortable, PMS symptoms can be relieved through regular physical activity and a healthy, balanced diet. 

Intense PMS symptoms

The intensity of PMS symptoms can vary from woman to woman, and can range from mild to severe. In very severe cases, PMS symptoms can leave women incapacitated and affect day-to-day activities. This can lead to women losing interest in activities of daily living, missing works, making decision based on current emotions and reacting aggressively.  

In these cases, it is important to consult a gynecologist to start appropriate treatment. These symptoms may be a sign of a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder, may may trigger anxiety attacks and depression.  

PMS symptom checker 

If you think you may have PMS, report your symptoms below to assess your risk: 

  1. 1. Do you notice you have difficulty concentrating before your period?
  2. 2. Do you experience severe headaches, vertigo or fainting spells on the days before your period?
  3. 3. Do you gain weight or notice that your hands/feet swell before your period starts?
  4. 4. Do you have episodes of diarrhea or constipation before menstruation?
  5. 5. Do you feel that your breasts become more sensitive?
  6. 6. Do you have episodes of sudden sadness, crying or irritability?
  7. 7. Do you have back pain on the days before your period?
  8. 8. Do you feel very overwhelmed or anxious before your period?
  9. 9. Do the symptoms cause you to avoid events with friends, family, work or school?
  10. 10. Do you suffer from insomnia or oversleeping the day before your period starts?
  11. 11. Do the symptoms disappear when menstruation arrives?

Why symptoms emerge

PMS symptoms emerge due to an eventual fall in estrogen levels and an increase in progesterone, which occurs on around the 14th day of the cycle. This influences the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a hormone responsible for managing mood and wellbeing. 

At around the 26th day of the cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels are very low, which triggers a period to start. At around day 3 or 4 of a period, these hormones start to increase again, and PMS symptoms gradually start to disappear.

How to relieve PMS symptoms 

PMS symptoms can be relieved (or managed) with simple measures, such as: 

  • Exercising regularly, like taking walking, swimming or cycling. Physical activity helps to release serotonin and endorphins, which increase wellbeing and relieve symptoms of anxiety, restlessness and irritability. Exercise helps to decrease fatigue, combat insomnia and fatigue, boosts concentration and improves intestinal functioning and circulation. This can help to treat constipation and bloating. 
  • Increasing fluid intake, being sure to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. This helps to reduce bloating and constipation, and keeps the body hydrated should you experience diarrhea. 
  • Increasing fiber intake by eating fruit, vegetables, and whole grains to help relieve constipation and keep you full, which reduces the urge to consume sweets. See our list of high-fiber foods that you can add to your daily diet. 
  • Consuming food with tryptophan, like bananas, cheese, and Brazilian nuts. These help to increase serotonin production, which is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for improving mood and wellbeing, which improve symptoms like a low mood, hunger and fatigue.   

In addition, to reduce symptoms of PMS, you should avoid consuming foods or drinks with high levels of caffeine, salt or alcohol. These increase bloating and fluid retention, which can may you feel more uncomfortable. Check out other tips for getting rid of water retention. 

Imagem do autor

Medical review:

Dr. Sheila Sedicias

Gynecologist

Breast specialist and gynecologist, with studies completed at the Federal University of Pernambuco in 2008. Licensed to practice with the CRM-PE, #17459.

Update History
We regularly update our content with the latest scientific information to maintain an exceptional level of quality.
References
  • HOFMEISTER, S.; et al. Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. Am Fam Physician. 94. 3; 236-40, 2016
  • APPLETON, S. M. Premenstrual Syndrome: Evidence-based Evaluation and Treatment. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 61. 1; 52-61, 2018
  • RYU, A.; KIM, T. H. Premenstrual syndrome: A mini review. Maturitas. 82. 4; 436-40, 2015

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