Understanding Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects many women in the days leading up to their menstrual period. Characterized by a range of physical and emotional symptoms, PMS can significantly impact daily life and well-being. From understanding your cycle to managing symptoms, our team is here to support you every month of the year!
What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
PMS encompasses a variety of symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, typically after ovulation and before the start of menstruation. These symptoms can be both physical and emotional and vary in severity from woman to woman.
Common Symptoms of PMS
Physical Symptoms:
Bloating
Breast tenderness
Headaches
Joint or muscle pain
Fatigue
Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:
Mood swings
Irritability
Anxiety
Depression
Changes in sleep patterns
A woman’s symptoms must
be present in the 5 days before a period for at least three menstrual cycles in a row
end within 4 days after a period starts
interfere with some normal activities
Keeping a record of your symptoms can help your ob-gyn understand if you have PMS. Each day for at least 2 to 3 months, write down and rate any symptoms you feel. Record the dates of your periods as well. If PMS symptoms are severe and significantly impact daily life, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider. Conditions such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a more severe form of PMS, may require specialized treatment and support.
Management and Treatment Options
Lifestyle Modifications:
Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help alleviate symptoms. Reducing caffeine, sugar, and salt intake may also be beneficial.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve mood and reduce symptoms such as fatigue and bloating.
Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and emotional symptoms.
Medications:
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help relieve physical symptoms such as cramps and headaches.
Hormonal Treatments: Birth control pills can help regulate hormonal fluctuations and reduce PMS symptoms.
Antidepressants: For severe mood-related symptoms, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed.
Supplements:
Calcium and Magnesium: Some studies suggest that calcium and magnesium supplements may help reduce PMS symptoms.
Vitamin B6: This vitamin has been found to help with mood swings and irritability.
What is PMDD?
PMDD is when the symptoms of PMS are severe enough to cause problems in your social, academic, personal, and work life. PMDD affects about 5 in 100 reproductive-aged women, usually those in their 20s and 30s.
Common Symptoms of PMDD
In addition to anger and irritability, other symptoms of PMDD can include:
feeling depressed
tearfulness and a loss of interest in usual activities
feeling overwhelmed and out of control
low energy
big changes in your appetite and sleep patterns
You may also experience bloating, breast tenderness, and muscle pain, similar to PMS symptoms.
If you feel you are experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. Remember to always tell your doctor about changes you notice with your cycle.
