---
title: What causes PMS and PMDD, and how are they treated? | Niyora
description: PMS affects 30-40% of women and is likely caused by sensitivity to normal hormone changes and neurotransmitter problems. Treatment includes antidepressants, b
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/premenstrual-syndrome-etiology-diagnosis-and-treatment-a-mini-literature-review-2018/
---

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- What causes PMS and PMDD, and how are they treated?

Review, 2018

# What causes PMS and PMDD, and how are they treated?

PMS affects 30-40% of women and is likely caused by sensitivity to normal hormone changes and neurotransmitter problems. Treatment includes antidepressants, birth control pills, counseling, and lifestyle changes.

 Strong study design

Women of reproductive age worldwide (review article).

## What they did

Literature review summarizing research on causes and treatments of PMS and PMDD.

## What they found

PMS involves emotional, physical, psychological and mood disturbances after ovulation. PMDD is severe PMS that affects work and relationships. Causes involve sensitivity to hormonal changes and neurotransmitter abnormalities. Treatments include serotonergic antidepressants, oral contraceptives, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modification.

## What it means for you

PMS is very common and well-studied, though the exact cause isn't fully understood. Multiple treatments are available. This is a summary of existing research, not new research findings.

30-40%

Percentage of women with PMS

3-8%

Percentage with severe PMDD

## About the study

Original title Premenstrual syndrome: etiology, diagnosis and treatment. A mini literature review Authors Kelechi Martins Nworie Journal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecological Investigations Year 2018 Study design Review What was tested Various treatments discussed. Open access Yes Read the paper [doi.org/10.5114/jogi.2018.78010](https://doi.org/10.5114/jogi.2018.78010)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pmdd/)[SSRIs and antidepressants](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-ssri/)[Oral contraceptives and drospirenone](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-hormonal-contraceptives/)[Cognitive behavioral therapy](https://niyora.com/research/topics/treatment-cbt/)[Work and productivity](https://niyora.com/research/topics/life-area-work/)

Research tells you what helps on average. Niyora helps on the day it hits.

Calm down, see it another way, and decide what to say, with a PMS and PMDD app built by a doctor.

## Related studies

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Guideline, 2019

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Review, 2018

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Review, 2017

What causes PMDD and what are the best treatments?

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