The premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is defined as a broad range
of physical, cognitive, affective and behavioral symptoms of varying intensity
and duration, occurring cyclically during the menstrual cycle and resolving shortly
at or near the onset of menstruation. Premenstrual symptoms occur in 95% of all
women of reproductive age; severe, impairing symptoms (PMS) occur in about 5%
of those women. To classify these symptoms as PMS, they must be present in the
5 days before the period and last for at least three menstrual cycles in a row,
they should typically end within 4 days after her period starts, and interfere
with some of your routine activities.

The diagnosis of
PMS depends on the history of cyclical symptoms.

One or more of the following
symptoms must be present:

§ 
Mood swings, sudden sadness, increased sensitivity to rejection

§ 
Anger, irritability

§ 
Sense of hopelessness,
depressed mood, self-critical thoughts

§ 
Tension, anxiety, feeling
on edge

One or more of the following symptoms must be present to reach a total of
five symptoms overall:

§ 
Difficulty concentrating

§ 
Change in appetite, food
cravings, overeating

§ 
Diminished interest in usual
activities

§ 
Easy fatigability,
decreased energy

§ 
Feeling overwhelmed, or out
of control

§ 
Breast tenderness,
bloating, weight gain, or joint/muscles aches

§ 
Sleeping too much or not
sleeping enough

The extent to which the symptoms of PMS influence mental functions,
including judgment, may vary among different individuals. If the symptoms are
severe, and you evaluate that your daily functioning is being significantly
impaired because of PMS symptoms, you will need to be evaluated by a physician
for proper management of these symptoms.