What does PMS mean?
PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome. The syndrome changes the woman’s mood, behaviour, physical health, and emotions during their menstrual cycle. Such changes occur between ovulation and two weeks before the start of the period. PMS is a recurring syndrome, as it will show up every month.
PMS Symptoms
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) combines various symptoms women exhibit before their period. The symptoms start to show two weeks before the arrival of the period. The symptoms vary from individual to individual, and the intensity of the symptoms also differ on a case-by-case basis.
The PMS symptoms range in variety. In many women, the symptoms are mood swings, tender breasts, fatigue, irritability, depression, and food cravings. Most women experience premenstrual syndrome — at least 3 to 4 women out of 10 experience a combination of the symptoms of PMS.
For some, the symptoms of the syndrome are manageable. They can carry out their daily activities despite the cramps and fatigue. However, the symptoms are so pronounced for others that everyday activities can become challenging. Mood swings and fatigue, and cramps make one feel bloated and moody. But such symptoms are curable.
Top 7 signs and symptoms of PMS
1. Changes in emotion
One of the most noticeable premenstrual symptoms is a change in emotions. Before the start of the period, the individual becomes more emotional. Their susceptibility to emotion reduces, and changes come about in their behaviour.
For instance, PMS causes women to feel on edge constantly. They feel anger and irritability. Sudden mood changes can also make them feel happy at one moment and then sad the next. They experience the extreme highs and lows of handling all emotions. Some women cry uncontrollably due to their PMS symptoms.
2. Increase in anxiety and restlessness
Due to ovulation, the hormone levels in the body change. The hormones oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate during this time. Most of the pre-period symptoms occur due to changes in hormone levels.
The hormones fluctuate during the menstrual cycle. The ovulation phase precedes the luteal stage. In the luteal phase, the hormones reach a peak and then decline. Such a sudden surge and decline can cause anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.
Another symptom that is common through PMS is restlessness. The intensity and feelings of restlessness differ from woman to woman. If one already has restlessness, the symptoms become worse in the case of PMS.
3. Changes in appetite
Women often experience increased cravings for certain types of foods before their period, or a complete loss of appetite. This can be due to hormonal changes in the body that affect hunger levels. It’s important to pay attention to your body and eat only when you are really hungry.
If you overindulge, try to make healthy choices such as fruits and vegetables instead of junk food. Exercise can also help to reduce cravings and give you some valuable endorphins that naturally lift moods.
4. Uncertain mood swings
Though it differs from woman to woman, PMS causes mood swings. The mood swings period can last for a few minutes, hours, or even days in the end. A person can go from a crying spell to a sudden outburst of anger. The emotional roller coaster causes irritability, depression, and oversensitivity.
As the oestrogen levels increase at the end of the cycle, the hormonal ebbs and flows cause varying moods. PMS mood swings are common in most women. However, the mood swings are sometimes severe, and the woman becomes almost dysphoric. In either case, one must consult a medical professional to handle the situation better.
5. Sudden anger and irritability
Anger and irritability are often signs of premenstrual syndrome. These signs are common. The hormonal changes make it difficult even to handle daily tasks. Therefore, many women feel anger and irritation. The mood swings before a period, like irritation and anger, can make one lash out suddenly.
6. Bloating
Other than mood swings during periods, one also experiences bloating. Bloating occurs 1 to 2 weeks before the start of the menstrual cycle. Sometimes cramps, backaches, and headaches accompany the bloating.
7. Change in sex drive
Due to the changes in hormonal balance, some women can have an increased sex drive. The high oestrogen and progesterone level increases the libido. Due to ovulation, the woman is also at her most fertile which makes this window the best time to try conceiving.
PMS Treatment
If these PMS symptoms disrupt your life, it is best to receive treatments from a medical professional. Here are some available treatments:
1. Eat a balanced diet
It is essential to maintain a balanced diet when one has PMS. Due to food cravings, one needs to add adequate food to their diet. For instance, the complex carbohydrates in pasta, cereals, and whole foods help deal with mood swings and other symptoms.
Calcium-rich food like yoghurt and leafy green vegetables also help. Avoid consuming too much caffeine and alcohol. Eating full meals three times a day keeps the blood sugar level stable. It helps with the symptoms.
2. Take medications
Along with a proper diet, one can also take medication for symptoms. Consuming calcium supplements helps to reduce mood symptoms. The magnesium supplements minimise bloating. It is vital to get medicines from a professional medical expert. In extreme cases, antidepressants and antianxiety medications help to alleviate the symptoms of PMS.
3. Lifestyle changes
If the PMS symptoms are mild, minor lifestyle changes can bring about relief. The symptoms interfere with your daily life. The kind of lifestyle you lead affects the intensity of the symptoms. Even after adjusting the symptoms, you must consult a medical professional.
4. Exercise
Aerobic exercises reduce the PMS symptoms like fatigue and PMS depression. Going for a brisk walk or light running session. Relaxation therapies like meditation, yoga, and massage therapy also help ease the pain and cramps. Sleeping for adequate hours and on time helps to combat the symptoms as well.
Conclusion
If you find that the PMS affects your daily life and quality of life, you must consult a medical professional. The diagnosis will help to narrow down why females have mood swings during their period. It will help you to receive treatment that curbs the symptoms and eases your menstrual journey.
FAQs about PMS
How long does PMS last?
The PMS starts before the period begins and is the worst four days before it starts. It generally goes away 2-3 days after the period begins.
How can I control my PMS mood swings?
You can curb mood swings by exercising, eating healthy food, or craving food. It is best to consult a medical professional if it is intense.
What medication can reduce PMS symptoms?
You can get certified medications prescribed by health professionals from the Ova website. They will give you the medicines after the diagnosis.
Does PMS get worse with age?
Yes. There is a possibility of PMS worsening as you approach your late 30s and as you eventually transition to menopause. But with a healthy lifestyle and medication, you can treat the symptoms.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.