Premenstrual syndrome: symptoms and support

Symptoms can include mood changes, irritability, low mood, anxiety, tiredness, bloating, headaches, appetite changes, and tender breasts. The useful clue is timing: symptoms recur in the days before bleeding and ease during or shortly after the period. [Breast Pain](/symptoms/breast-pain/) may be one part of this pattern, but breast symptoms can have other causes. A symptom diary covering several cycles can show whether the changes follow a predictable rhythm and how much they affect work, relationships, sleep, or usual activities.

Record symptoms alongside cycle dates, sleep, meals, stress, and medicines. Regular movement, consistent sleep, balanced meals, and reducing alcohol or caffeine may help some people. Gentle heat can ease cramps or breast discomfort. If symptoms remain disruptive, a clinician can discuss psychological support, symptom-specific treatment, or hormonal options such as the [Combined Pill](/treatments/contraception-and-family-planning/combined-pill/). Do not start or stop hormonal treatment without advice.

Arrange an appointment if symptoms interfere with daily life, appear outside the premenstrual phase, change suddenly, or do not improve with self-care. Seek urgent help for thoughts of self-harm, feeling unable to stay safe, or severe emotional distress. A clinician can also assess other explanations, including thyroid problems, anaemia, depression, or medication effects.

Ask whether your pattern fits PMS or a more severe premenstrual mood disorder, how long to keep a symptom diary, which treatments suit your health history, and what warning signs should prompt urgent help.