Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Pathogenesis

The exact etiology of PMS and PMDD is unknown but is likely multifactorial and includes both physiologic and psychological causes. Past hypotheses have included abnormalities in estrogen-progesterone balance, disturbance in the renin-angiotensinaldosterone pathway, excess prostaglandin and prolactin production, and psychogenic