Еxact cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

is unknown, researchers do know that during PMS, hormone levels are fluctuating;estrogen levels are lowere than at any other time of the month. Whether low levels of estrogen circulating in the blood stream causes the "PMS blues" or if chemicals in the brain are to blame is being investigated. As with many medical conditions, we may never know exactly what causes PMS.

"But you know we can't help it... we don't even know the cause...But as soon as this part's over then comes the menopause, " sings Dolly Parton in the song titled PMS blues. And, Dolly’s right. We don’t know the cause. And, for many of us, menopause is just around the corner accompanied by hot flashes, more mood swings, weight gain and decreased sex drive.

Once menopause is over, we have increased health risks unique to post-menopausal women. Is it really any wonder that we’re depressed?

According to the Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, women are twice as likely to become depressed as men, due in part to PMS hormone levels and changing hormone levels that occur throughout a woman’s life. Around 75% of all women deal with the PMS blues each month.

Some sources say this number is around 85%. So, what is different about those lucky 15-25% that do not have PMS symptoms? Once again, no one knows, but it is likely that a number of different factors are involved.