Premenstrual Syndrome - Causes

Complications

PMS, and in particular premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), can have an adverse effect on women's relationships with co-workers, partners, and children.

Risk for Major Depression

Depression and PMS often coincide, and may in some cases be due to common factors. Some studies suggest that PMDD may lead to or predict perimenopausal depression in some women.

Substance Abuse

Women who abuse alcohol or have close relatives who are alcoholics, have a much higher risk for drinking during the premenstrual period. Alcohol worsens PMS symptoms and may increase the risk for prolonged cramping (dysmenorrhea) during menstruation.

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Studies also have found a higher incidence of smoking in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder than in women without PMDD.

Magnification of Other Medical Conditions

A number of conditions worsen during the premenstrual or menstrual phase of the cycle, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as menstrual magnification.

Migraines. About half of women with migraines report an association with menstruation, usually in the first days before or after menstruation begins. Compared to migraines that occur at other times of the month, menstrual migraines tend to be more severe, last longer, and not have auras.

Asthma. Asthma attacks often increase or worsen during the premenstrual period.

Other Disorders. Many other chronic medical conditions may be exacerbated during the premenstrual phase, including epilepsy and other seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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