Have you ever experienced any of those symptoms just prior to your period? Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a wide variety of symptoms that happens right before a woman gets her monthly period. It's estimated that as many as 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome. When the symptoms are really severe and disabling, doctors call it premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is not as common. Symptoms tend to recur in a predictable pattern and can be a combination of physical and emotional symptoms. Your experience may vary from just slightly noticeable all the way to really intense. Regardless of the severity, these symptoms tend to disappear for the most part within four days after the start of the menstrual period for most women. You do not have to let these problems control your life. There are treatment and lifestyle adjustments that may help you reduce or manage the signs and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. If you are not ab...