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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - What Increases Your Risk

Although the cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is poorly understood, a number of risk factors have been noted among women with PMS.

Risk factors for PMS that you cannot control include:

Recommended Related to PMS

Depression and PMS

Depression is a symptom that many women experience during their menstruating years. The key element that sets apart PMS-related depression from other forms of depression is the timing of symptoms. More than 150 different symptoms have been ascribed to PMS, but the hallmark of PMS-related problems is their occurrence during the two weeks prior to the onset of menstruation (around the time of ovulation). Women suffering from PMS-related depression report dramatic relief from their symptoms...

Read the Depression and PMS article > >

A family history of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Age. PMS becomes increasingly common as women age through their 30s, and symptoms sometimes get worse over time.
Previous anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems. This is a significant risk factor for developing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Risk factors that you can control include:

Lack of exercise.
High stress.
Vitamin B6, calcium, or magnesium deficiency.
High caffeine intake.
Poor diet.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 08, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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