What is PMS? Many women can experience premenstrual symptoms in the days leading up to their period, but what exactly is premenstrual syndrome, who experiences the symptoms, what causes them and when does it happen ? Keep reading this blog post to learn more!
What causes PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome occurs in some people who menstruate, but what actually causes it to happen? The overall cause of PMS is not yet known, but it is thought that the fluctuating levels of hormones in your body during your cycle is likely to contribute to the condition. Changing levels of the sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, along with serotonin may lead to a person experiencing PMS. An increase in estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to anxiety, irritability and mood swings, while serotonin is known to influence our mood. Due to the suspected role of hormones throughout the cycle of menstruation, PMS symptoms tend to go away during pregnancy and menopause.
When does PMS happen?
Premenstrual syndrome tends to take its effect in the time leading up to the onset of a period. On average, a person will experience the symptoms of PMS from around 5-11 days before their period and the symptoms will end once their period begins. If you do experience PMS symptoms, it may be helpful to track your menstrual cycle. In this way, you will likely be able to understand when your PMS symptoms will begin and when your period will start.
What are the symptoms?
There are a number of symptoms associated with PMS and some people will experience some of the symptoms and not the others. The symptoms of PMS include affects on your mood and emotions, such as irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression and emotional outbursts. Other symptoms include sore breasts, abdominal pain, fatigue, headaches, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea, constipation and acne.
Who does PMS affect us?
Premenstrual syndrome affects up to 90% of women who menstruate. Any person who menstruates has the potential to develop PMS and experience the symptoms, but there are also risk factors associated with the condition. These risk factors include a history of depression, a family history of PMS, substance abuse, physical or emotional trauma and smoking.
How is it diagnosed?
PMS is usually diagnosed when a person experiences one than one symptom repeatedly and during the correct time frame of their cycle. If you believe that you are experiencing PMS and its symptoms, make sure you visit your doctor to confirm. This is important as the symptoms of PMS may easily be confused with the symptoms of other conditions, such as endometriosis, thyroid disease, anemia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic fatigue syndrome. It is therefore important to see your doctor to ensure that you receive the correct diagnosis.
Can PMS be treated?
Unfortunately, premenstrual syndrome is incurable, however there are many ways that the symptoms that are experienced can be relieved. Such practices include drinking enough water to relieve bloating, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, exercising, practicing stress and anxiety easing exercises and getting a good amount of sleep. Supplements are also an option for treating the symptoms of PMS, although we recommend going for a transdermal approach.
Wildyam Root, Marshmallow Root and Vitex are all natural ingredients that encourage hormonal balance.
