PMS

Medical abbreviation · Obstetrics & Gynecology

PMS
Stands forPremenstrual syndrome
CategoriesMedical

PMS stands for Premenstrual syndrome, an obstetrics & gynecology abbreviation.

Recurring physical and emotional symptoms in the days before menstruation, such as bloating, breast tenderness, irritability, mood changes and fatigue, that ease once the period starts. Many women have mild symptoms, while a smaller group has symptoms that disrupt daily life.

Example: PMS with bloating and irritability days 22–28; symptom diary, exercise and calcium.

Usage notes

Diagnosis relies on prospective symptom tracking over at least two cycles. Exercise, calcium supplements and, for more severe cases, SSRIs or hormonal contraception help. The most severe, mood-dominated form is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a psychiatric diagnosis. Also called premenstrual tension in older British usage.

More obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations

  • OCP – Oral contraceptive pill
  • OHSS – Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
  • Pap – Papanicolaou test
  • PGT – Preimplantation genetic testing
  • PID – Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • PIH – Pregnancy-induced hypertension
  • POI – Primary ovarian insufficiency
  • POP – Pelvic organ prolapse
  • PP – Postpartum
  • PPH – Postpartum hemorrhage
  • PPROM – Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes
  • PROM – Prelabor rupture of membranes

See all 89 obstetrics & gynecology abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.