How can we tell if I have premenstrual syndrome?

The diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome can only be made from the history (story). There are no symptoms that are exclusively associated with PMS every PMS symptom can occur in other situations and there is no test that can distinguish between those who have PMS and those who do not. Caution is required in making the diagnosis. A chart may help to distinguish whether or not the symptoms are of a cyclical nature or not (Figure 25.1). The symptoms of PMS disappear completely when menstruation stops and they do not recur until ovulation two weeks before the next period.

Some women have underlying psychological problems such as depression or anxiety that become more noticeable in the premenstrual phase (secondary premenstrual syndrome). In these women not all their symptoms disappear after the period. Treatment of PMS in these circumstances may only partially overcome their problems although this may at times be enough to make their lives more tolerable.

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