Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Clinical approach of diagnosis and treatment.

Jeong, Kyung Ah

Review

Korean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 2007;50(3):416-422.
Published online March 1, 2007.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Clinical approach of diagnosis and treatment.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea. ogjeong@mm.ewha.ac.kr

Abstract

The large number and variety of premenstrual symptoms reported have made premenstrual disorders difficult to characterize. Premenstrual disorders can have a significant negative impact on a woman's quality of life and work productivity. But women diagnosed as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) seldom seek a medical advice and commonly use non prescribing medicines. The pathophysiology of the wide range of PMS/premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) symptoms may be explained by multiple mechanisms. Clinicians need to recognize the diagnostic criteria for PMS/PMDD. The many and varied treatments used for premenstrual disorders can be a source of confusion. These practical treatment algorithms in women with PMS/PMDD would be helpful. It is important for clinicians practicing in women's health to be familiar with the various approaches to treating premenstrual disorders and their relative efficacy.

Key Words: Prementrual syndrome, Premenstrual dysphoric disorder