Many women experience discomfort (sore, swollen breasts, minor pain in the lower abdomen, nervousness) before their periods. They may also have mild cramps when the menstrual flow starts. In most cases, these symptoms do not interfere with their normal activities and can be alleviated by diuretics ("water pills") and salt reduction to reduce bloating; plus pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

For some women, however, symptoms can be more severe, signaling a condition that needs medical attention. These problems include:

• Premenstrual irritability and mood swings (PMS) and its more severe form, PMDD

• Very painful periods

• Heavy bleeding

• Unusually short or long cycles

• Failure to menstruate

• Early menstruation

• Toxic shock syndrome

Should you or your daughter experience any of these menstrual abnormalities, consult your doctor. He or she will take a complete medical history, perform a thorough physical examination, and conduct tests to diagnose the cause of the menstrual problems and determine the best course of treatment.