Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome is a recurring pattern of physical, emotional, or behavioral symptoms during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle that improves shortly after menstruation begins.

Luteal phase: The second half of the menstrual cycle, from ovulation until menstruation begins. Premenstrual symptoms typically emerge during this phase and ease as it ends.
Menstrual cycle: The recurring hormonal and reproductive changes that prepare the body for possible pregnancy. The syndrome’s timing is defined by a recurring phase of this cycle.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor: A class of medicines that increases serotonin signaling by inhibiting its reuptake at nerve synapses. These medicines can reduce severe mood and physical symptoms, sometimes with luteal-phase dosing.
Premenstrual exacerbation: Worsening of an ongoing medical or psychiatric condition during the premenstrual phase. Unlike PMS, symptoms of the underlying condition remain present outside the premenstrual window.
Estrogen: A group of steroid hormones involved in reproductive function and other bodily processes. Its cyclical changes may interact with nervous-system sensitivity in premenstrual symptoms.
Ovulation: The release of an egg from an ovary, usually once during a menstrual cycle. Symptoms commonly arise after ovulation rather than throughout the cycle.
Combined oral contraceptive pill: A contraceptive medicine containing synthetic estrogen and progestin, taken in pill form. Some formulations suppress ovulation and can reduce premenstrual symptoms.
Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstrual cramps, often arising just before or during menstrual bleeding. Its defining pain centers on menstruation rather than a broader premenstrual symptom pattern.
Progesterone: A steroid hormone that rises after ovulation and helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy. Its post-ovulation rise and subsequent withdrawal coincide with the symptom window.
Menstruation: The periodic shedding of the uterine lining, accompanied by bleeding through the vagina. Symptoms characteristically improve shortly after menstruation starts.

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Heavy menstrual bleedingCompared with: It concerns symptoms around the cycle rather than excessive menstrual blood loss.