Review, 2007
What is PMS and what treatments work?
PMS affects an estimated 75% of women during the luteal phase of their cycle. Diagnosis is based on symptom tracking, not blood tests. Calcium supplements and SSRIs are treatments with excellent evidence for reducing symptoms.
What they did
Review of scientific literature on PMS diagnosis, causes, and treatment options.
What they found
PMS is a recurrent disorder occurring in the luteal phase, characterized by physical, psychological, and behavioral changes. No tests can confirm it; diagnosis requires daily symptom tracking. Symptoms remit with the onset of menstruation. The cause is likely abnormal responses to normal hormone fluctuations. Both non-drug and drug treatments exist. Calcium carbonate and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have demonstrated excellent efficacy.
What it means for you
PMS is common and treatable. Women should track symptoms for an accurate diagnosis. While lifestyle changes are tried first, medications are available if needed. This is a review article summarizing existing evidence rather than new research.
75%
Estimated percentage of women affected by PMS
2
Treatments with excellent evidence (calcium, SSRIs)
About the study
- Original title
- [An overview of premenstrual syndrome]
- Authors
- Zaafrane F, Faleh R, Melki W et al.
- Journal
- Journal de gynecologie, obstetrique et biologie de la reproduction
- Year
- 2007
- Study design
- Review
- What was tested
- Various treatments reviewed
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.jgyn.2007.01.007
Topics
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