Estimates of the number of women experiencing these symptoms vary from 10 to 80 percent. The female gonads, the ovaries, produce estrogen and progesterone. An increase of estrogen facilitates the development of an egg cell from the ovary. Estrogen production increases during the first half of the menstrual cycle, and then tapers off prior to menstruation. Levels of progesterone increase gradually and peak during the second half of the menstrual cycle.
Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy.
Some research has found estrogen treatments reduce PMS symptoms, but other studies have not found a significant difference between subjects receiving estrogen treatments and subjects receiving a placebo. Sex hormones affect neurotransmitters, including serotonin, GABA, and the endorphins. Remember the endorphins are related to mood, which may explain the shift to a more negative, irritable mood prior to menstruation in some people. Treatments vary widely, and include such suggestions as reducing the intake of sugar, salt, and caffeine, increasing the B vitamins, taking hormonal supplements, engaging in meditation, and exercising. More research is needed to understand better the cause and evaluate treatments of this condition.