PMS: Signs and Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a phase that hits most women a few days before her menstrual cycle, which can affect her emotional health, physical health, and behaviour. Usually, the symptoms of PMS start 5 to 11 days before her menstruation date. As per a lot of studies conducted around the world it is believed that PMS premenstrual syndrome is related to a change in the levels of sex hormone and serotonin at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. 

During certain times of the month, there can be an increase in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. An increase in these hormones can cause premenstrual symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. The change in the levels of serotonin in the brain and gut can affect a woman’s moods, emotions, and thoughts.

Since we already know what is PMS let us discuss some of the factors that can be a reason for premenstrual syndrome:

• Earlier medical history of depression or mood disorders can be reasons behind a woman’s PMS symptoms. This can be due to postpartum depression or bipolar disorder.
• Family history of PMS can be a big reason behind Premenstrual syndrome. If a mother has PMS symptoms, then it is quite possible that the daughter can inherit that from her.
•  PMS mood swings symptoms are quite common with those who have a family history of depression.
• PMS symptoms are common among women who are facing the problem of domestic violence, physical trauma, emotional trauma or substance abuse.

A woman’s menstrual cycle lasts an average of 28 days typically. However, it can vary if she has hormonal disorders or PCOS. An egg is released from the ovaries on the 14th day of her menstrual cycle. This phase is known as the ovulation period. Menstruation or period occurs on the 28th day of her cycle.

Period symptoms can begin around the 14th day and last until 7 days after the start of bleeding or menstruation. The symptoms of PMS can be mild, moderate or severe. As per research, around 80 percent of women have reported mild symptoms of PMS that usually do not affect their daily life. However, twenty (roughly) percent of women who have reported facing problems of moderate to severe PMS symptoms that can affect some aspects of their life. 

Here are some of the symptoms of PMS:

• Period cramps are the most reported symptoms that 60% of women face both before and during her periods.
• Abdominal bloating can be due to indigestion and is one of the most common PMS symptoms.
• Sore breasts or tender breasts can be symptoms of PMS
• Acne and pimples are other PMS problems that most women suffer.
• Another PMS symptom includes food cravings. 
• Both constipation and diarrhoea can be PMS symptoms.
• Mild to severe headaches and sensitivity to light or sound
• Tiredness or fatigue is another symptom of PMS.
• Changes in sleep patterns can be a PMS symptom.
• Period mood swings are quite common among women before the starting of her menstruation. The symptoms include anxiety, depression, sadness, irritability and emotional outbursts.

Some of the PMS treatments include:

• Drinking plenty of water can help in easing abdominal bloating.
• Eating a balanced diet can help in improving a woman’s overall health and energy level.
• Consuming supplements like folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B-6 and magnesium can help in reducing cramps and mood swings.
• Sleeping at least eight hours per night can help in reducing fatigue
• One can exercise to decrease bloating, reduce stress and improve their mental health

PMS symptoms can recur every month, but they go away after your menstruation. To reduce or eliminate the PMS symptoms, one needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a comprehensive treatment.