Select the symptoms you're experiencing to find out which menstrual cycle phase they're most commonly linked to, when they typically peak, and what patterns to look for across your cycles.
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle — the days between ovulation and the start of your period. Up to 75% of people who menstruate experience some form of PMS. Symptoms are caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly the rise and fall of progesterone and estrogen after ovulation.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that affects about 3–8% of people who menstruate. While PMS symptoms are manageable, PMDD causes significant mood disturbances — severe depression, anxiety, or irritability — that interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. PMDD may require medical treatment, including SSRIs or hormonal therapy. If your pre-period symptoms are severe, consult a healthcare provider.
PMS symptoms follow a predictable pattern — they appear after ovulation and resolve within the first few days of your period. If your symptoms persist throughout your cycle, worsen over time, or don't follow a cyclical pattern, they may be caused by something other than PMS. Conditions like endometriosis, thyroid disorders, anxiety, depression, and IBS can all cause symptoms that overlap with PMS.
Bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, fatigue, headaches, food cravings, acne, cramps, and back pain. Most people experience at least some of these in the 1–2 weeks before their period.
Typically 5–11 days before your period, during the luteal phase. They resolve within a few days of menstruation starting.
PMS follows a cyclical pattern — symptoms appear after ovulation and resolve with your period. If symptoms don't follow this pattern or are severe, consult a healthcare provider.
PMS involves manageable symptoms. PMDD causes severe mood disturbances that interfere with daily life and may require medical treatment. PMDD affects about 3–8% of people who menstruate.
The information on this page is based on peer-reviewed medical sources. This tool is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Ovuly uses your Apple Watch data — HRV, wrist temperature, sleep — to make cycle predictions that go beyond calendar math.
