premenstrual syndrome

American  

noun

Pathology.

1. a complex of physical and emotional changes, including depression, irritability, appetite changes, bloating and water retention, breast soreness, and changes in muscular coordination, one or more of which may be experienced in the several days before the onset of menstrual flow. PMS

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premenstrual syndrome British  

noun

1. Abbreviation: PMS.   PMT.  a group of symptoms, including nervous tension and fluid retention, any of which may be experienced as a result of hormonal changes in the days before a menstrual period starts

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Etymology

Origin of premenstrual syndrome

First recorded in 1980–85; pre- + menstrual

Example Sentences

The next webinar will take place on Tuesday evening and will discuss polycystic ovary syndrome, premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

From BBC • Jun. 24, 2025

Countless prescription pharmaceuticals had failed to stabilize her chronic mood disorders, including depression and Bipolar II disorder, and, more recently, her premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a particularly disabling form of premenstrual syndrome.

From New York Times • Jan. 7, 2017

In 1987, Thomas Johnson published an article in the journal Culture, Medicine, and Psychiatry arguing that premenstrual syndrome was a “culture-specific disorder,” noting that:

From Slate • Nov. 28, 2016

Other conditions treated with antidepressants included sexual dysfunction, premenstrual syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, urinary problems and bulimia.

From US News • May 24, 2016

Menstruation is still one of the most taboo subjects in a relationship, and many women do suffer from a form of premenstrual syndrome.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2011