What should you know about PMS and pre-menstrual symptoms?

PMS can involve bloating, cramps, breast tenderness, headache, tiredness, skin changes, appetite changes, irritability, tearfulness, anxiety, low mood, or sleep problems. Symptoms may vary from cycle to cycle, but the repeated relationship with the premenstrual phase is useful information.

The symptoms should be considered in context: their intensity, how long they last, and whether they affect work, study, relationships, or self-care. Breast discomfort can be read alongside information about [Breast Pain](/symptoms/breast-pain/). Persistent symptoms that do not follow the cycle deserve a broader assessment.

Record symptoms daily with the dates of bleeding, sleep, food, activity, stress, and any medicines. Regular physical activity, dependable sleep, balanced meals, and time for relaxation may help. Simple measures such as warmth for cramps or a supportive bra for breast discomfort can make specific symptoms easier to manage.

If PMS keeps affecting your life, discuss treatment with a clinician. Options can include talking therapy, symptom relief medicines, or hormonal treatment such as the [Combined Pill](/treatments/contraception-and-family-planning/combined-pill/), depending on your health and contraceptive needs.

Arrange a review when symptoms are severe, worsening, difficult to control, or repeatedly interfere with normal activities. Seek urgent help if low mood includes thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or if you cannot keep yourself safe. Contact emergency services in an immediate crisis.

Ask whether your symptoms fit PMS, how long to track them, which relief measures are appropriate, and whether another condition could be contributing. Ask when to return if the pattern changes or treatment does not help.