ABSTRACT
The premenstrual syndromes (PMS) are characterized by symptoms that are limited to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, occur for several days to 2 weeks before menses, and remit during the menstrual flow. Over 300 symptom complaints have been linked to the condition.1 Although a diagnosis of PMS is clearly hampered by the absence of a biological marker, the more immediate problem is the absence of accepted, evidence-based diagnostic criteria to evaluate the numerous undifferentiated menstrual cycle complaints that may be presented to the clinician. This chapter addresses the clinical presentation and course of premenstrual symptoms, the current diagnostic criteria, and considerations in evaluating premenstrual symptoms of women who seek medical treatment for PMS.
