We’ve all heard the stereotypes about “that time of the month” when women supposedly demonstrate unruly or aggressive behavior, fall into random outbursts of crying, and crave sweets and chocolate.
As cliche as all of this sounds, PMS is also a very real condition prompted by the changes women’s bodies go through during their periods and it should be taken seriously.
Even if you’ve experienced premenstrual syndrome before, you may not be clear on the reality of the causes and symptoms.
What is PMS, anyway, and how can we treat it?
What Is PMS?
Chances are, you’ve experienced this common condition before: PMS affects upwards of 90% of all menstruating women. What is premenstrual syndrome, exactly?
Premenstrual syndrome happens when hormone levels fluctuate around a woman’s period. When a woman is not pregnant after ovulation, estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fall, and the body may experience a range of mild to severe symptoms as a result. These symptoms go away on their own over time.
What Are the Symptoms of PMS?
PMS symptoms vary from woman to woman, and they may change as each woman ages. However, there are a few common physical and emotional symptoms to look out for.
- Tender or swelling breasts
- Bloating or cramping
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Headaches or muscle aches, especially in the lower back
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
- Irritability or mood swings
- Food cravings or changes in appetite
- Anxiety, depression, or feelings of sadness
- Less sexual interest
In general, you won’t need to seek help or a diagnosis from a doctor unless your symptoms are severe, especially if they impact your lifestyle. Tracking your symptoms can help you get a better understanding of how they impact your day to day life during and after your period.
How Can You Treat PMS?
Fortunately, simple at-home remedies are effective in reducing PMS symptoms.
Regular physical activity can help relax muscles, decrease bloating, reduce stress, and even relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, a balanced diet, paired with supplements that include folic acid, calcium, vitamin B6, and magnesium, can help reduce cramps. You should also make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep per night to reduce the strain of muscle aches and fatigue.
Over-the-counter pain medication can help with severe aches and cramps, as can certain yoga poses. Many women are unaware that CBD can help with PMS as well.
Know How to Treat PMS
Now that you’ve stopped wondering “What is PMS?” it’s time to find better ways to treat it. Each woman experiences PMS differently, and each woman may also see success with different PMS-relieving tactics. Be sure to try several different types to know what works best for your body.
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