PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome) is a term that is used to describe any symptoms that occur around the time of your period. Normally, you will experience symptoms just before your period arrives, however many people continue to experience the symptoms during their period.
There are so many symptoms of PMS so it’s important that you’re aware of what you might experience and how you can help to relieve the symptoms. PMS can occur during the two weeks leading up to your period, they can come back every month and may get better once your period has started; however every woman is different.
You might experience:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and tension
- Breast tenderness
- Weight Gain
- Back Ache
- Emotions
- Food Cravings
- Bloating
- Tiredness
- Depression
There are also many other symptoms that you may experience. You may find that you are much more sensitive than usual, and you are becoming emotional or agitated very quickly. Many women say that when they’re experiencing PMS they know that they’re feeling and thinking differently, but they have no control over these changes. Some women feel very negative and often will get upset at the slightest thing, without any reason.
There are different types of PMS, whereby you may experience different types of symptoms:
Type A = Anxiety
This is very common in up to 80% of women during each cycle. You may also experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety and tension.
Type C = Cravings
This is also extremely common, where you may crave sweets or chocolate and have an increase in appetite. You may also experience headaches and fatigue, and around 60% of women say that they experience these symptoms.
Type H = Hyper-hydration
This can include symptoms such as water retention, breast tenderness, abdominal bloating and weight gain.
Type D = Depression
This is the largest symptom in the PMS group, and it can also include confusion, clumsiness, withdrawal, emotions and confusion. Many women will experience these symptoms to a certain level during their cycle – some women more than others – as we are all different.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, then don’t worry; you’re not alone! It’s very common for women to experience PMS, so if you’re concerned or confused talk to a woman that you’re comfortable with and discuss PMS with her, and you’ll be surprised that a lot of women experience these symptoms too! Regular exercise can relieve some of your symptoms, especially if you’re feeling down or stressed, as exercises releases hormones that make you feel happy. If you’re experiencing headaches, back-aches or other pains, you can relieve the symptoms by taking an over-the-counter painkiller, such as ibuprofen or aspirin. If you are experiencing abdominal pain, you may want to try holding a hot water bottle against your belly which may help to relieve the pain.
If you’re really suffering from PMS symptoms, consult your doctor and tell them what you’re experiencing. It may help to keep a diary of your symptoms and when you experience them, so you can predict throughout the month how you might be feeling and what you can do to relieve the pain. The combined contraceptive pill is also effective in stabilising your level of hormones and can make your periods lighter, so that you’re not in as much pain.
Whatever you do, don’t suffer in silence and talk your friends or older women about what you’re experiencing; you’ll be surprised to find that almost every other woman goes through the same thing!