Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a typical condition in women who are of reproductive age. PMS occurs during ovulation leading up to the menstrual cycle. It affects the physical, emotional as well as mental state of the women, resulting in stress and anxiety. Many women suffer from minor symptoms, while some face consequences in their personal and professional lives.
The exact reason for PMS is not apparent yet, but it is believed that it is commonly caused by hormonal changes occurring during the menstrual cycle. Other factors, like diet, physical activities, and stress, also increase the severity of the Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms. Having explicit knowledge about Premenstrual Syndrome and its symptoms is very necessary in helping women cope with this natural yet challenging stage of their lives.
What Is PMS?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a combined state of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that occurs before the menstrual period. It starts within a few days or weeks before menstruation and starts declining once the period begins. Many women are suffering from PMS nowadays, and it affects their reproductive as well as physical and mental health. Common symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, change in appetite, and muscle or joint pain are seen during Premenstrual Syndrome.
Who Gets PMS?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can affect any woman of reproductive age. Still, some women are more prone to this because of various factors contributing to the likelihood of developing Premenstrual Syndrome, like ageing, hormonal sensitivity, medical history, and overall lifestyle.
1. Women Of Reproductive Age
- Premenstrual Syndrome usually affects women who are in their late teens or early 40s.
- Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms often begin in the late 20s to early and may worsen with ageing.
2. Women With Hormonal Sensitivity
- Some women are more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations; changes in progesterone and estrogen are more likely to trigger symptoms.
3. Women With A Medical History
- Women with a medical history of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders are more susceptible to symptoms.
- Another advanced form of PMS, called premenstrual dysphoric disorder(PMDD), is linked to mood fluctuations.
4. Women With High-Stress Levels
Chronic anxiety and stress worsen the Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms, affecting emotional health and resulting in mood swings, fatigue, and irritability.
5. Women With Poor Lifestyle Habits
- Unhealthy diets, processed food, and intake of sugary foods, caffeine, and alcohol can worsen the symptoms of PMS.
- Lack of physical activity and poor sleep routine can increase fatigue, bloating, and mood fluctuations.
5. Women With A Family History Of PMS
- PMS has a genetic component also, meaning if women mothers, grandmothers, or sisters have Premenstrual Syndrome, then they are more likely to experience it themselves.
6. Women Approaching Menopause (Perimenopause)
- Women who are in their late 30s to early 40s, approaching menopause, may experience intensified PMS symptoms due to hormonal imbalance.
What Is PMDD?
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and debilitating form of Premenstrual Syndrome that significantly affects a woman’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Unlike PMS, which causes mild to moderate discomfort, PMDD leads to intense mood disturbances, severe depression, extreme irritability, and heightened anxiety, often disrupting daily activities, work, and relationships. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and sleep disturbances are also common.
The exact cause of PMDD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of hormonal fluctuations affecting serotonin levels in the brain. Women with a history of depression or anxiety may be more susceptible. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, stress management, dietary changes, antidepressants, and hormonal therapy. If Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms become overwhelming and interfere with daily life, it is advised to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and management of PMDD.
Symptoms Of PMS
Premenstrual Syndrome has various symptoms that affect women’s physical, emotional well and psychological health. These symptoms usually occur in the days or weeks leading up to menstruation and start declining when the period begins. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person. Below are the most common symptoms:
1. Physical Symptoms
- Bloating And Water Retention: Many women experience abdominal swelling due to fluid retention.
- Breast Tenderness Or Swelling: Hormonal changes can make the breasts feel sore or swollen.
- Headaches Or Migraines: Fluctuations in estrogen levels may trigger headaches or worsen migraines.
- Fatigue And Low Energy Levels: A drop in energy and increased tiredness are common symptoms.
- Muscle Or Joint Pain: Body aches, stiffness, and cramps are widespread in women during PMS.
- Changes In Appetite: Premenstrual Syndrome may lead to cravings for sweet, salty, or high-carb foods.
- Sleep Disturbances: Some women struggle with insomnia, while others feel excessively sleepy.
- Acne Or Skin Breakouts: Hormonal fluctuations can cause skin problems like acne or pimples on the face.
- Digestive Issues: Constipation, diarrhoea, or stomach discomfort may occur.
2. Emotional and Psychological Symptoms
- Mood Fluctuations: mood fluctuations and increased sensitivity are common during periods.
- Anxiety And Stress: Many women experience heightened stress or uneasiness during periods.
- Depression: Irritable mood, hopelessness, or sadness may occur.
- Increased Sensitivity To Stress: Regular situations may feel more overwhelming than usual.
- Emotional Outbursts: Some women become more emotional during Premenstrual Syndrome.
- Low Concentration: Premenstrual Syndrome can affect focus and mental clarity, leading to forgetfulness.
- Feeling Overwhelmed: Unable to control emotions, sometimes pleased, occasionally sombre, and feeling like crying.
3. Behavioral Symptoms
- Social Anxiety: Some women prefer isolation or avoid social interactions.
- Increased Food Cravings: A strong urge to eat sweets, salty snacks, or carbohydrates is common.
- Less Motivated: PMS can cause a temporary lack of motivation or enjoyment.
Difficulty Handling Everyday Tasks: Feeling less productive or unable to manage daily responsibilities.
What Causes PMS?
Premenstrual Syndrome can worsen health conditions, making symptoms more intense and challenging to manage. Since PMS affects both physical and mental well-being, it can amplify various health issues, including mood disorders, chronic illnesses, and hormonal imbalances.
- Mental Health Conditions – Women with depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder often experience more severe Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms. PMS can worsen mood swings, irritability, and emotional distress, increasing the risk of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a more extreme form of Premenstrual Syndrome.
- Migraines and Headaches – Hormonal fluctuations during Premenstrual Syndrome can trigger or worsen migraines and tension headaches, especially in women prone to them.
- Chronic Pain Conditions – Premenstrual Syndrome can intensify pain-related conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) due to increased inflammation and sensitivity.
- Sleep Disorders – PMS-related insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, and disturbed sleep can worsen conditions and lead to chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Gastrointestinal Issues – Premenstrual Syndrome can exacerbate digestive disorders such as IBS, acid reflux, and bloating, leading to discomfort and irregular bowel movements.
- Endometriosis and PCOS – Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis may experience more severe Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms due to hormonal imbalances and chronic inflammation.
Managing PMS through a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and medical Treatment can help prevent it from worsening other health conditions. If PMS significantly affects daily life, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
How Long Does PMS Last?
Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms typically begin 5 to 7 days before a woman’s period and usually go away within 2 to 4 days after menstruation starts. However, the duration and severity of Premenstrual Syndrome can vary from person to person.
For some women, PMS symptoms may last only a couple of days, while for others, they can persist for a week or more. Factors like hormonal fluctuations, stress levels, diet, and lifestyle can influence how long PMS symptoms last.
If PMS symptoms are severe and continue beyond menstruation, it may indicate a more serious condition, such as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) or an underlying health issue. Keeping track of symptoms over several cycles can help identify patterns and assist in better management. If Premenstrual Syndrome significantly impacts daily life, consulting a doctor is recommended.
How Does PMS Affect Mental Health?
Premenstrual Syndrome can have a massive impact on mental health due to hormonal imbalances affecting our brain and mood regulation. Due to PMS, many women go through mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression during their periods. Changes in serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood stabilization, can enhance emotional sensitivity and feelings of restlessness.
For some women, PMS can result in even more worsening health conditions like depression and anxiety or bipolar disorder, making symptoms more intense. In severe cases, Premenstrual Syndrome may further develop into Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a severe condition that causes panic attacks, mood fluctuations, and struggling to manage daily responsibilities and maintain emotional balance.
Making simple changes in your daily routine can manage PMS-related mental health effects. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and, in some medical cases, antidepressants or hormonal therapy can help reduce Premenstrual Syndrome. If PMS symptoms worsen and interfere with mental well-being, seeking medical support is necessary.
How Does PMS Affect Other Health Problems?
Premenstrual Syndrome can worsen existing health conditions, making symptoms more intense and challenging to manage. Women with mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder often experience heightened mood swings, irritability, and emotional distress during PMS, increasing the risk of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can trigger or worsen migraines, tension headaches, and sleep disturbances, leading to fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may also flare up due to increased inflammation and heightened sensitivity.
PMS can aggravate digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, and irregular bowel movements. Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis often experience more severe Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms due to existing hormonal imbalances. Incorporating more physical activity in your daily routine, proper diet, and expert guidance can help to lessen these Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
PMS Treatment
There is no specific test to diagnose Premenstrual Syndrome. Instead, your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, timing, and impact on your daily life. You may have PMS if your symptoms:
- Occur five days before your period for at least three consecutive cycles.
- Disappear within four days after your period starts.
- Interfere with your daily activities or well-being.
To determine Premenstrual Syndrome, track your symptoms for a few months. Make records of their severity daily using a calendar or a mobile app. Share this information with your doctor for a more accurate assessment and personalised Treatment for PMS
What Can You Do At Home To Relieve PMS?
Though there is no particular test to diagnose PMS, there are other tips that you can follow at home to relieve PMS symptoms and feel healthier.
- Add More Physical Activity To Your Routine: Exercise regulates our blood levels and improves our mood, resulting in better concentration power and relieving anxiety and depression.
- Nutritious Food: Avois processed food, sugary drinks, salt, and caffeine two weeks before your period helps lessen the Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
- Get Enough Sleep: Try to get proper sleep for at least eight hours. Lack of sleep makes our mood more irritable, leading to mood swings and worsening PMS symptoms.
- Hormonal Contraceptive: This medication stops evolution, which provides relief from Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
- Discover Practical And Healthy Strategies To Manage Stress: Start journaling or meditation; it will relax your mind. Some find yoga or massage helpful.
Quit Smoking: Scientific studies have proved that women who smoke are more prone to PMS as compared to women who do not smoke.
How Do Doctors Treat PMS?
Though there is no specific treatment for PMS, the doctor may have you take :
- Vitamins such as vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and supplements.
- Diuretic pills(water pills) help you to ease bloating by making you urinate more.
- Birth control pills
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) help in relieving cramps, headaches, or joint pain.
If you have severe Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms or PMDD( Premenstrual dysphoric order), the doctor may recommend you take
- Antidepressants
- GnRH agonist is a hormone that causes the ovaries to produce fewer female hormones.
Alternative Remedies For Premenstrual Syndrome
Other than medicine, specific effective remedies can help to soothe the symptoms of PMS.
Vitamin Supplements: Vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B-6 are said to soothe PMS symptoms, but the evidence is limited.
-Herbal Remedies: Some women have relieved from Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms with natural ingredients like ginger, ginkgo, chaste berry, and evening primrose oil. However, researchers have found that any herb is very effective in relieving Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
The FDA(Food And Drug Administration) does not control herbal remedies, so there is no guarantee of the safety and effectiveness of herbal products. Please consult your doctor before consuming any herbal product as they overlap with other medications or have side effects.
–Acupuncture: An acupuncturist carefully inserts a sterilised stainless steel needle into specific points on the body; some women feel pain relief with this Treatment.
Can PMS Be A Sign Of An Underlying Health Condition?
Yes, severe or persistent PMS symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. While PMS is ordinary, excessive mood swings, extreme fatigue, or intense pain may be linked to other medical issues. Conditions that can mimic or worsen PMS symptoms include:
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) – A severe form of PMS that causes extreme mood disturbances, anxiety, and depression.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Hormonal imbalances in PCOS can lead to irregular periods, mood changes, and Premenstrual Syndrome-like symptoms.
- Thyroid Disorders – An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause fatigue, mood swings, and changes in menstrual cycles.
- Depression and Anxiety Disorders – Pre-existing mental health conditions may be mistaken for PMS, especially if symptoms persist beyond menstruation.
- Endometriosis – Severe cramps, pelvic pain, and heavy periods may be a sign of endometriosis rather than typical Premenstrual Syndrome.
If PMS symptoms are severe, prolonged, or interfere with daily life, consulting a doctor is essential for proper diagnosis and Treatment.
Can PMS Symptoms Change With Age?
Yes, PMS symptoms can change as you age, often becoming more intense or different over time due to hormonal shifts. Many women notice changes in their PMS patterns during significant life stages, such as their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
- In Your 20s: PMS symptoms may be milder and more predictable as menstrual cycles regulate.
- In Your 30s: Symptoms can become more pronounced due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, and lifestyle factors. Women who have had children may experience different Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
- In Your 40s (Perimenopause): As menopause approaches, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate more drastically, leading to worsened PMS symptoms, including severe mood swings, anxiety, and irregular periods.
Other factors, such as stress, diet, underlying health conditions, and hormonal imbalances, can also influence how Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms evolve with age. If PMS becomes severe or disruptive, seeking medical advice can help manage symptoms effectively.
Overview
Premenstrual syndrome is a combined form of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that occur in ovulation days leading up to menstruation. It affects many women of reproductive age and is caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. PMS symptoms include mood swings, irritability, bloating, fatigue, headaches, breast tenderness, and food cravings. While symptoms vary in intensity, they usually resolve within a few days after the period begins.
PMS can be managed through lifestyle changes, like a balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and proper sleep. In severe cases, doctors may recommend pain relievers, hormonal therapy, or antidepressants. An advanced form of PMS, known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), can affect your mental health significantly.
Tracking symptoms and seeking appropriate Treatment can help women better manage Premenstrual Syndrome, improving overall health and quality of life.
