Premenstrual Syndrome
When the same difficult days return every month, the pattern matters.
PMS can affect mood, energy, concentration, sleep, relationships and physical comfort in the days before a period. If these symptoms are disrupting your life, they are worth discussing.
PMS is more than feeling a little irritable
Premenstrual symptoms are often minimised because they are common or expected. However, losing several days each month to pain, exhaustion, anxiety, low mood or feeling unlike yourself can have a significant effect over time.
The timing is important. PMS symptoms usually occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle and improve shortly after the period begins. Recognising that pattern can help distinguish PMS from symptoms that continue throughout the month.
02
Your PMS appointment
Look at the symptoms and when they occur.
You may wish to discuss:
- 01
irritability, mood changes or feeling emotionally overwhelmed
- 02
anxiety, low mood or tearfulness
- 03
difficulty concentrating
- 04
fatigue or changes in sleep
- 05
headaches or migraines
- 06
bloating, fluid retention or breast tenderness
- 07
food cravings or appetite changes
- 08
cramps, muscle aches or joint pain
- 09
symptoms affecting work, study, relationships or daily activity
Your doctor may ask about your menstrual cycle, when symptoms begin and settle, medication, contraception, mental health and other medical conditions that could be contributing.
There is no single blood test that confirms PMS. Recording symptoms across at least two menstrual cycles can help identify a recurring pattern. You can still book before you begin tracking, and your doctor can explain what information may be useful.
If available, bring the dates of recent periods, a list of medicines and supplements, and any notes about how symptoms change across the month.
03
PMS and PMDD are not the same
PMS can include both physical and emotional symptoms. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, known as PMDD, involves more severe cyclical mood symptoms and can significantly affect daily functioning and mental health.
If symptoms include intense depression, anxiety, anger, hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm or feeling unable to function, tell your doctor. These symptoms need to be taken seriously and assessed appropriately.
04
Treatment shaped around the symptoms affecting you
Management depends on the symptoms, their severity, your medical history and whether you also need contraception. Options may include practical changes relating to sleep, exercise and stress, psychological support, hormonal treatment or other medication.
Your doctor can discuss the potential benefits and risks of suitable options and review how well the plan is working over time.
Related care
Related care at Mahila
PMDDAssessment and management of severe cyclical mood symptoms that may affect relationships, work or daily life.Read more
PerimenopauseAssessment and support for changes in periods, sleep, mood, temperature, concentration, energy and more.Read more
ContraceptionIndividual advice about contraceptive options based on your health, preferences and stage of life.Read more
Pelvic PainCare for persistent, recurring or unexplained pain affecting the pelvis, lower abdomen or daily life.Read more
Heavy Menstrual BleedingAssessment of heavy or prolonged periods and the effect they may be having on your health.Read more
Appointment length
Choose the appointment type that matches where you are in your care. Exact fees follow the medical consultation fee schedule unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
New patients
45-minute consultation
Returning patients (follow-up)
Up to 20 minutes. If the consultation runs longer, an additional fee may be charged.
Medical consultation fees are listed below. Confirm appointment and fee details with reception when booking.
Medical consultation fees
Mahila Women's Clinic is a private billing practice. The following medical consultation fees apply unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
A Medicare rebate may apply to an eligible medical consultation. The item billed depends on the service provided, the actual consultation time, the clinician and Medicare requirements.
Procedures, pathology, imaging, products, equipment and other services may involve additional costs. Relevant additional fees should be shown on the individual service page or discussed before the service is provided.
| Consultation length | Clinic fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 20 minutes | $150 |
| Up to 30 minutes | $280 |
| Up to 45 minutes | $380 |
| 60 minutes or longer | $450 |
Talk with a doctor about your concerns.
Book an appointment at Mahila Women's Clinic in Camberwell.