Who is affected by PMS
About 85% of menstruating women have one or more premenstrual symptoms.1 When premenstrual physical and emotional symptoms interfere with your relationships or responsibilities, they are called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). When these emotional symptoms or aggression are severe, they are called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
- About 40% of women are significantly affected by PMS at some time in their lives.
- PMS occurs most often in women in their 20s and 30s.
- PMS is not as common in teenagers.
- In contrast to PMS, PMDD affects only 3% to 8% of women.2
PMS affects women worldwide, though different ethnic groups may be more affected by certain symptoms. Research shows that women in the United States appear to be more affected by symptoms of irritability, mood swings, tension, and weight gain. Women in Europe and Asia report more problems with swelling, breast pain, and backache.2
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW | Last Updated: July 7, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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