Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): What Increases Your Risk


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What Increases Your Risk


Although the cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is poorly understood, a number of risk factors have been noted among women with PMS.

Risk factors for PMS that you cannot control include:

  • A family history of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • Vitamin B6, calcium, or magnesium deficiency.2
  • Age. PMS becomes increasingly common as women age through their 30s, and symptoms sometimes get worse over time.6
  • Previous anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems. This is a significant risk factor for developing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).5

Risk factors that you can control include:

  • Lack of exercise.
  • High stress.
  • High caffeine intake.
  • Poor diet.
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Last updated: July 07, 2006
Author: Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman

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