Every woman will go through approximately 450 menstrual cycles in her lifetime, and prior to each cycle, three out of four women will experience PMS, also known as premenstrual syndrome. These symptoms can be both inconvenient and disruptive. Interestingly, even the Ancient Greeks acknowledged the physical and emotional changes that accompany PMS. However, it wasn’t until 1931 that modern medicine formally acknowledged this condition, and the term “Premenstrual syndrome” was coined in 1953.
Understanding Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome, commonly known as PMS, encompasses a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms alongside mood disturbances. These symptoms typically manifest in women one to two weeks prior to the onset of their menstrual period. Fortunately, these symptoms usually diminish around the beginning of menstrual flow or a few days thereafter. While most women consider PMS symptoms a minor inconvenience that can be self-treated or disregarded if they are mild, for some, the severity of these symptoms can be incapacitating, necessitating time off from work.
Understanding the Causes of PMS
The exact cause of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) remains a mystery. However, it is believed to be a result of fluctuating hormone levels during the second half of the menstrual cycle, which interact with brain chemicals. Following ovulation, there is a significant decrease in estrogen levels and a rise in progesterone levels. This hormonal shift directly impacts serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood and pain sensitivity. Studies indicate that women who experience PMS tend to have lower serotonin levels before their menstrual periods compared to those who do not experience PMS.