Menstrual Discomfort: A New Kind of Misery?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects many women of childbearing age. Here's a guide to understanding PMS, its symptoms, and potential management strategies.
PMS symptoms, such as fatigue, mood swings, and bloating, typically begin after ovulation as estrogen and progesterone levels drop. These symptoms fade during the period when hormone levels start to rise again. More than 90% of women experience some PMS symptoms, with women in their 30s being most likely to have PMS.
Common symptoms of PMS include fatigue, trouble with concentration or memory, constipation or diarrhea, bloating or a gassy feeling, appetite changes or food cravings, headache, sensitivity to noise or light, backache, cramping, swollen or tender breasts, clumsiness, irritability, sleep problems, tension or anxiety, depression, feelings of sadness or crying spells, mood swings, and low libido.
An unlucky 5% of women of childbearing age have premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is more intense than PMS.
Several lifestyle changes and treatments may help alleviate PMS symptoms. Regular exercise can combat depression and fatigue related to PMS. Practicing yoga for 12 weeks may reduce the need for pain medication and lessen the impact of menstrual pain. Reducing caffeine, salt, and sugar intake 2 weeks before a period may also help.
Some over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help with PMS symptoms. Diuretics can help relieve bloating associated with PMS. Massage therapy may provide relief from PMS symptoms as well.
Cognitive behavior therapy can potentially help with premenstrual disorders. If emotional symptoms are impacting daily life, it's advisable to consult a doctor about potential causes and treatment options. Anti-anxiety meds and antidepressants may help with the emotional symptoms of PMS.
Herbal supplements such as black cohosh, chasteberry, and evening primrose oil may potentially help with PMS, but studies on these substances are sparse and inconclusive. Calcium and vitamin B6 supplements may help alleviate PMS symptoms for some women. However, before taking supplements for PMS symptoms, it's important to discuss potential side effects and drug interactions with a doctor.
Conditions such as anxiety disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, migraine, allergies, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, and bladder pain syndrome may coexist with or be worsened by PMS. High stress levels and a family or personal history of depression may contribute to the likelihood of having PMS.
Smoking is associated with worse PMS symptoms. If symptoms associated with PMS are outside of what's normal for an individual, it's important to consult a doctor.
Prescription options are available for treating the physical and emotional symptoms of PMS. Hormonal birth control may potentially reduce PMS symptoms, but it may also exacerbate symptoms for some individuals. Shifting serotonin levels may also be a factor for women who experience PMDD.
In the workplace, PMS can impact productivity. In a study, 80% of women reported losing productivity while at work during their periods. An average of 1.3 days of work is missed per year by Dutch women aged 15 to 45 due to period symptoms. 67.7% of participants in the study expressed a desire for more flexible work schedules to accommodate their period symptoms.
In conclusion, PMS is a common condition that affects many women. Understanding its symptoms and potential management strategies can help women manage their PMS effectively. If symptoms are impacting daily life, it's important to consult a doctor about potential causes and treatment options.
