In historical and modern times, many negative connotations regarding menstruation have existed, contributing to some women's unpleasant expectations of the premenstrual phase. However, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) was first noted as a true medical disorder by American Gynecologist Dr. T. Frank in 1931.

The medical community refers to PMS as a condition that is characterized by a group of physical and emotional symptoms that have a significant impact on a woman's day-to-day activities. This is in contrast to the common occurrence of premenstrual symptoms that many women, including you, may experience in the week or two weeks before your period.

There are more than 150 recognized PMS symptoms, which differ from one woman to the next, and the causes of PMS remain unclear.¹ Some women may be more sensitive than others to changing hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Stress does not seem to cause PMS but may make it worse. Diagnosis of PMS is usually based on your symptoms, when they occur and how much they affect your life.²