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Study, 2023

What is the difference between period pain and premenstrual syndrome?

Period pain and PMS are different conditions. Period pain is throbbing, cramping in the lower abdomen with back pain, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. PMS causes weight gain, bloating, irritability, and fatigue starting 1 to 2 weeks before the period.

Early or limited evidence Women experiencing menstrual periods

What they did

This is an informational guide explaining what menstrual disorders are.

What they found

Period pain symptoms include throbbing, cramping in lower abdomen, lower back pain, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. PMS symptoms include weight gain, bloating, irritability, and fatigue. PMS usually begins 1 to 2 weeks before the period.

What it means for you

Understanding the difference helps identify which condition you have. The main limitation is that this is informational content, not research findings from a study.

1-2 weeks

when PMS typically starts before period

About the study

Original title
Period pain to menstrual irregularities: A comprehensive guide to menstrual disorders
Authors
Montila Shatat
Journal
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Year
2023
Study design
Study
What was tested
None - educational information
Open access
Yes
Original abstract

Menstruation, often known as a period, is the normal vaginal bleeding that occurs as part of a woman's monthly cycle. Many women experience painful periods, often known as dysmenorrhea. Menstrual cramps, a throbbing, cramping pain in your lower abdomen, are the most common cause of pain. Other symptoms may include lower back discomfort, nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is not the same as period discomfort. PMS manifests itself in a variety of ways, including weight gain, bloating, irritability, and fatigue. PMS usually begins one to two weeks before your period

Reproduced under CC-BY.

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