What causes PMS?

    Researchedby:
    Marina Shkayeva

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Mike Murray
    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    No one knows what causes PMS. It is likely that changes to the levels of estrogen and progesterone and individual sensitivity to these changes trigger PMS symptoms. These hormones affect levels of neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid, dopamine, and serotonin which in turn can affect mood. Some evidence suggests that suppressing estrogen can improve PMS symptoms,[1] and a deficiency of progesterone may worsen symptoms, but more research is needed.[2]

    References

    1. ^Hofmeister S, Bodden SPremenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.Am Fam Physician.(2016-Aug-01)
    2. ^Gudipally PR, Sharma GKPremenstrual SyndromeStatPearls.(2022-07)