PMS And Its Symptoms PMS, also known as premenstrual tension or premenstrual dysphoria, is a symptom or collection of symptoms that occurs regularly in relation to the menstrual cycle. These symptoms occur before or during menstruation. An exact cause of PMS has not been identified, however, it may be related to social, cultural, biological, and psychological factors. A wide range of physical or emotional symptoms have been associated with PMS. By definition, such symptoms must occur during the second half of the menstrual cycle (14 days or more after the first day of the menstrual period) and be absent for about 7 days after menstrual period ends (during the