What is PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the physical and emotional symptoms women can experience in the one to two weeks leading up to their period. These symptoms often settle once your period begins.
Many women experience one or two mild premenstrual symptoms such as cramping, breast tenderness or mood changes which are usually manageable. However for some women, these symptoms can be more intense and impact daily lifestyle choices.
Symptoms
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) includes a range of physical and psychological symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. These symptoms can differ in type and severity between individuals. Recognising the range of symptoms can help you better understand your body and when to seek support.
Physical Symptoms
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bloating or a gassy feeling
- Cramping
- Headache or backache
- Clumsiness
- Lower tolerance for noise or light
Emotional Symptoms
- Irritability or hostile behavior
- Feeling tired
- Sleep problems (sleeping too much or too little)
- Appetite changes or food cravings
- Trouble with concentration or memory
- Tension or anxiety
- Depression, feelings of sadness, or crying spells
- Mood swings
- Less interest in sex
What causes PMS?
We don't know what exactly causes PMS or why it happens, but recent research suggests it could be associated with how certain chemicals interact in the brain. Other factors that influence PMS include physical and emotional mental health, stress levels and lifestyle choices.
How to manage PMS
There are many things that can be done to help manage the symptoms of PMS such as lifestyle modifications, hormone treatments and natural therapies.
Lifestyle modifications;
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining healthy sleep habits and good sleep hygiene
- Eating a balanced diet
- Ensuring adequate water intake
- Medicine and hormone treatments
Medicines;
- Hormone medicines such as the pill can work to supress ovulation and reduce hormone levels during the menstrual cycle which may help to reduce the severity of symptoms
- Prescribed antidepressants and anti-inflammatories may help to reduce symptoms of PMS
- Over the counter pain medication can help with symptoms such as cramping, headaches or back pain.
Other options;
- Talk to your doctor about alternative options such as natural therapies, vitamins, minerals and herbs that can help to relieve some emotional and physical symptoms of PMS.
Prioritise your life!
It’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and possible treatment options if your symptoms impact your professional or personal life, relationships and overall quality of life.
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560698/
- Shah, N.R. et al. (2008). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: a meta-analysis. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 111(5), pp.1175–1182
