PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT IS NOT.

The syndrome is only definitive when resolution occurs with the onset of menses or soon thereafter. Manifestations of PMS include: nervousness, depression, irritability, insomnia, headaches, breast enlargement, abdominal bloating, oedema, gastrointestinal upsets, skin disorders antisocial behavior and psychosexual aberrations. Hormonal changes are probably the main etiological factor and the newest approach to management consists of inhibition of ovulation by means of estradiol implants. Although emotional and psychiatric symptoms are prominent, psychiatric treatment is disappointing. PMS is simply a response to biochemical and metabolic changes following ovulation; distressing PMS represents a psychological maladjustment to these hormonal tides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]