Everything You Need To Know About Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)
You might be reading that thinking what the heck is PMS? It stands for Pre Menstrual Syndrome and it is estimated that 3 in 4 menstruating women have experienced pre- menstrual syndrome to some degree.
In simple terms PMS is the name given the symptoms you experience in the weeks or days leading up to your period. Typically PMS symptoms present themselves 1-2 weeks before your period is due to start. The symptoms are usually mild and don’t interrupt daily life. They usually stop when your period starts.
What Causes PMS?
Changing hormone levels are the cause for PMS. During your menstrual cycle your hormone levels such as oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall. These rising and falling hormone levels are the reason your experience premenstrual symptoms.
What are the symptoms of PMS?
- Moodiness
- Food cravings
- Headaches
- Acne
- Fatigue
- Stomach cramps
- Breast tenderness
- Muscle aches
- Anxiety
What helps PMS Symptoms?
You don’t have to live in misery if you are experiencing PMS.There are a few things you can do to help the symptoms!
Aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming, jogging, hiking is great for your health over all while also helping PMS symptoms. Keeping your body in good shape helps with the fatigue, moodiness and cramps that you may experience with PMS.
Get enough sleep: It is very important that you have a good sleep schedule when dealing with PMS as well as when on your period. A common symptom of PMS in fatigue so making sure you are getting adequate sleep can prevent you from feeling burnt out and will help your energy levels stay up during the day!
Watch your diet: Of course treats are necessary now and again! A balanced diet including lots of fruits and vegetables is vital in combating PMS symptoms. When you are eating junk food it makes you feel sluggish and so your PMS symptoms will follow suit. Eating healthy food helps you feel fresh and energised and makes the PMS symptoms that bit easier to deal with!
Find good ways of dealing with stress: Stress can make PMS symptoms worse so having hobbies that help you relax and deal with stress is really important. It could be walking, singing, writing, listening to music. As long as it is something you enjoy and boosts your mood that will do the trick!
Evening Primrose Oil: Some people believe that taking Evening Primrose Oil eases the symptoms of PMS. You should speak to your doctor before starting a new supplement.
Now that you know how to handle PMS symptoms, check out this article on How To Feel Better When You Are On Your Period, so you can handle the main event just as well!