Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome is characterized by an array of somatic, cognitive, affective and behavioral disturbances that recur in cyclic fashion during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The goal of management is to control symptoms well enough that the patient can function appropriately at all stages of the menstrual cycle. Both the patient and the physician must acknowledge that premenstrual syndrome is a complex reproductive disorder with a large number of possible manifestations; therefore, they must be willing to consider more than one strategy, and they must allow sufficient time to seek out successful therapeutic options. The patient must play an active role in all stages of management. Although no specific cure for premenstrual syndrome currently exists, most patients experience significant reduction of symptoms and improvement of quality of life when a rational individualized approach is used. Management may involve pharmacologic, nutritional and psychosocial interventions.