Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is something many women experience as part of their menstrual cycle. It can feel like an emotional and physical rollercoaster each month, bringing a mix of mild-to-intense range of symptoms.
Understanding PMS, why it happens, and how to manage it can help women navigate this challenging time more efficiently and comfortably. Let’s explore this condition!
What is Premenstrual Syndrome?
Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS, is a collection of symptoms experienced by many women before their menstrual period. These symptoms can include:
- Mood swings
- Tender breasts
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Appetite changes
Research reveals other symptoms, including poor concentration, body pain, headache, back pain, fatigue, joint pain, oversleeping, food cravings, and a short temper.
PMS occurs due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone, during the menstrual cycle.
Although the exact cause isn’t fully scientifically understood, these hormonal changes likely affect brain chemistry, resulting in physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms.
Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome
As mentioned before, PMS mainly consists of three kinds of symptoms: physical, emotional, and behavioural. The severity level for each symptom can be different for each woman. On top of that, not all women experience the same symptoms for each cycle.
Check out common symptoms of PMS!
Emotional and Behavioural Symptoms
Here are some common emotional and behavioural symptoms to watch for:
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Oversleeping
- Appetite changes, including food cravings
- Short temper
- Decreased libido or sex drive
- Hard to concentrate
- Anxiety
Physical Symptoms
Meanwhile, the physical symptoms usually look like this:
- Tender and sore breasts
- Physical pain, including body, head, back, and joint pain
- Fatigue
- Cramps
- Bloated stomach
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Sensitive to sound or light
Causes of PMS
While there isn’t a scientifically accurate conclusion about what causes PMS, researchers have proposed several theories.
Chemical Changes in the Brain
Research suggests that the brain’s serotonin and Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) systems are involved in PMS symptoms. The fluctuation of these hormones can cause mood swings, often seen during PMS.
Cyclic Changes in Hormones
During the luteal phase, progesterone and allopregnanolone levels rise, enhancing GABA activity to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. However, hormone fluctuations can alter GABA sensitivity, which may lead to mood swings, irritability, and anxiety associated with PMS.
Depression
Women with existing mental health conditions like depression have a higher likelihood of experiencing PMS or a more severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
An inherited history of PMS from the family members also increases the risk of a similar case.
Treatment of PMS
Managing PMS involves lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and natural therapies. Let’s explore these options to help reduce PMS symptoms and may help alleviate other premenstrual syndrome issues.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes may help reduce PMS symptoms. You can do these efforts:
- Regular exercise
- A healthy diet
- Adequate sleep
- Stress management techniques
- Keeping a symptom diary
Besides controlling PMS symptoms, these lifestyle changes can also help improve overall women’s health.
Medicine and Hormone Treatments
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medical treatments and hormone therapy may help reduce severe PMS symptoms.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Birth control pills
- Antidepressants
- Hormone treatments
You need to see your doctor to determine the most appropriate medicine and hormone treatment plan for your condition. They will diagnose it.
Natural Therapies
Natural therapies offer alternative options for managing PMS and may help reduce PMS symptoms.
- Herbal supplements
- Acupuncture targets specific body points
- Dietary supplements, such as calcium and magnesium
- Aromatherapy with essential oils
Consulting with your doctor ensures safety and effectiveness before starting any natural therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do PMS symptoms start?
PMS symptoms typically start 5 to 14 days before your menstruation begins.
Why do I feel so bad before my period?
Hormonal fluctuations, especially in estrogen and progesterone, cause symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and cramps.
Does PMS worsen with age?
Yes, PMS can worsen with age, particularly as you approach perimenopause (the phase before menopause).
Also read : Cervical Dysplasia: Understanding Abnormal Cervical Cells
Conclusion
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects many women, causing a wide range of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Understanding PMS is crucial for managing its impact. You can better navigate this monthly rollercoaster by recognising the signs and learning effective coping strategies.
If your PMS symptoms worsen, consult your doctor to prevent further discomfort. For expert PMS treatment and other women’s health services, visit Wells Road Medical Centre today!
