Premenstrual Syndrome in Teens: Care Instructions

Overview

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical or mood-related symptoms that occur before your menstrual period each month. Symptoms begin about 1 to 2 weeks before your period starts. These symptoms go away in the first few days of your period.

PMS is related to hormone changes that happen during your menstrual cycle. But doctors don't know why some people have PMS and others don't. They also don't know why some people have worse symptoms than others.

There are different symptoms of PMS. You may have bloating or muscle aches. You may also feel moody, have trouble sleeping, or crave certain foods.

With PMS, these symptoms interfere with your daily life. They may affect your relationships, or your work or school. Home treatments and medicines can help you feel better.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Ask your doctor if you can take anti-inflammatory medicines for body aches and breast tenderness. These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Limit food and drinks that make your symptoms worse. This may include things like caffeine, alcohol, or salt. Do this while you have PMS or several days before you might have symptoms.
• Eat a variety of healthy foods. This includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein. Include plenty of foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy products, almonds, and dark leafy greens. Ask your doctor if you should take a calcium supplement.
• Be as active as you can every day. For many people, walking is a good choice. Or you may want to swim, bike, or be active in other ways. Housework and yard work count too.
• Try to reduce stress. Relaxation techniques—such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga—may help.
• Talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins, minerals, and herbal or other dietary supplements. Some may help relieve PMS symptoms.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You feel you cannot stop from hurting yourself or someone else.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
• Go online to chat.988lifeline.org to start a chat.
• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers or having this website in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have heavy vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through one or more pads in an hour.
• You have new or worse belly or pelvic pain.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
• You do not get better as expected.