Causes of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS is fairly common and some estimates suggest that up to 70% of women have at some point in their life experienced it (Papalia, Olds, Feldman, 2001). Causes for premenstrual syndrome can be difficult to establish because women who report it may experience it differently and at different intensities and under different circumstances. In addition, there may be extenuating factors for some women, such as high stress levels, that can lead to conditions that mimic PMS symptoms such as anxiety, depression and trouble sleeping.

It is believed by many that hormones may be responsible for much of the problems that PMS is associated with. During the menstrual cycles hormones are released that regulate the reproductive cycle. Two of these hormones progesterone and estrogen seem to be related to the experience of PMS. Fluctuations in hormones or an imbalance may underlie PMS, but other things may contribute to the problem. For example, diet and lack of exercise have the potential to intensify symptoms.

Examples of foods associated with increased PMS symptoms are foods that are high fat, caffeinated or fried. Modifying the diet to include vitamin rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and lean proteins may ease symptoms considerable. In fact, so much so that dietary changes are frequently suggested by physicians treating PMS sufferers. Regular exercise also sees to reduce symptoms and their severity when they occur.

Diagnosing PMS is often dependent on the timing of the symptoms. PMS occurs 1-2 weeks before the menstrual period and usually cease once the period begins. A woman or her health care provider may track the occurrence of the onset of symptoms to make a final diagnosis of PMS. Causes of PMS are not clear cut however, it appears that hormonal fluctuations can trigger PMS symptoms and other factors can make them worse such as diet, stress and emotional problems.

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