Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
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PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AT HCA HEALTHCARE UK
If you’re diagnosed with PMS or PMDD, we'll recommend the best ways to treat and manage it, and you’ll also have access to dedicated teams including psychologists, physiotherapists and dietitians.
Whatever your symptoms or experiences, we’re committed to helping you.
It's a very common women's health issue, but the severity and duration of your PMS symptoms will be totally specific and individual to you. It can affect anyone who has periods, at any time, and it’s common for your symptoms to change as you get older, or even from one month to the next.
You might experience a variety of emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms, often in combination. They’ll usually happen one or two weeks before your period, after you’ve ovulated.
PMS can cause physical symptoms like:
- bloating
- breast pain
- headaches
- tiredness
- stomach cramps
- spots, acne or other skin changes
- changes in your appetite
As well as your physical symptoms, you might also experience changes in your emotions and behaviour:
- irritability
- feeling anxious
- feeling upset
- frequent mood changes
- loss or lack of interest in sex
- difficulty sleeping
Some studies suggest that over 90% of women who have periods will experience at least one of these symptoms without needing treatment. But we know that PMS can be much more intense for some people, so you should get in touch with us if you’re concerned in any way.
If you’re experiencing extreme symptoms that are having a significant impact on your life, you might have a more severe form of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD can result in severe depression and suicidal thoughts and usually needs to be treated.
If you're having suicidal feelings, please seek emergency help.
It’s understandable to think PMS is just a part of everyday life, but there’s support and treatment available. If your PMS is causing you significant pain or distress, then it might help to get in touch with us.
A women’s health GP is a good place to start. Our appointment times are extended, so you’ll have all the time and space you need to talk about your symptoms and concerns.
If you’ve already visited a GP or you have a referral, our consultant gynaecologists can offer tests, support and any treatments you need.
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PMS TESTS AND SCANS AT HCA UK
There’s no specific single way to test whether you’re suffering from PMS. But our specialists will take time to look at your physical and mental symptoms and see how they relate to your menstrual cycle. They’ll talk to you about how severe the impact is, discuss potential treatments and suggest ways to make your PMS more manageable.
- Appointments within 24 hours
- Extended women’s health appointments
- PMS and PMDD subspecialists
- Dedicated women's health centres
- Holistic care, including psychology
PMS TREATMENTS AT HCA UK
If your PMS is severe, then you might need medication or specific treatment, but your consultant will usually recommend lifestyle changes to begin with. They might include:
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet
- Non-prescription painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
If these don’t work, or you’re still experiencing a significant impact on your day-to-day life, then then your HCA GP or gynaecological consultant might suggest other treatments such as:
The oral contraceptive pill: This can prevent you ovulating and reduces the changes in your hormone levels.
Antidepressants: These can help if your PMS is causing anxiety or depression.
You’ll be taken through every potential option and have time to talk over any questions or concerns.
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all of our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll give you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Premenstrual Syndrome FAQ
There’s no precise way to say why some women experience more severe PMS than others, or how likely you are to develop symptoms. But some factors can make a significant difference:
- Your age: PMS is more likely if you’re aged between 20 and 40
- A history of anxiety or depression: If you suffer from any mental health conditions, you could be at risk of similar PMS symptoms.
- Diet and alcohol use: Drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can make your PMS symptoms worse, and if your diet doesn’t have enough vitamins and minerals, that can be a factor too.
There are ways to manage all these potential risks, and your specialist will be able to offer specific, tailored advice.
Other conditions don’t specifically cause PMS, but there are some that can have very similar symptoms:
- PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder): This is a very severe form of PMS that can cause much more severe symptoms.
- Endometriosis: This is when cells similar to those in your womb start growing in other parts of your body, and it can make menstruation more painful.
- Anxiety or depression: These are mental health conditions but it's not unusual to experience them when you have PMS, or for PMS to make them more severe.
- Thyroid problems: If your thyroid gland is underactive or overactive, it can lead to tiredness, depression and changes in your weight.
- Perimenopause: When you’re in the transition stage before , you might experience changes in your periods, low mood, or have trouble sleeping.
Your PMS specialist might suggest some tests to rule some of these conditions out before diagnosing you with PMS, such as blood tests. They’ll talk to you in detail about any specific test options, so you’ll always know what to expect.
PMS symptoms are also likely to ease or disappear completely when you transition through menopause, because your periods will stop.
“HCA UK’s services mean women are able to access tailored care and treatment plans that they deserve, at a time to suit them.”
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.