THE WORLD's first oral contraceptive pill that also treats the symptoms of severe premenstrual syndrome or PMS has been approved for use here.

The pill, called Yaz, is taken for 24 days every month, instead of the standard 21-day regime, and combined with the pill's low hormone dose, is able to improve the severe physical and emotional symptoms experienced by some women.

At least half the women experience some form of PMS symptoms, with one in 20 getting the more debilitating form, said Dr Tan Thiam Chye, a member of the Obstetrics and Gynaecological Society of Singapore.

The common symptoms incude bloating, abdominal cramps and mood swings.

The new pill is available at general clinics and costs $34 a month. Other contraceptive pills currently on the market cost between $15 and $28 a month.