Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a name for all the symptoms you may experience during the time leading up to your period. These can be physical symptoms or psychological (emotional) symptoms. The symptoms come back every month, sometimes worse than the times before, sometimes less bad. This can be different every month. The severity and type of symptoms will also differ per woman. Almost every woman experiences some symptoms before their period. For example, most women often have breast tenderness, mood swings or headaches. This is very normal and doesn’t mean you have premenstrual syndrome. However, you may be suffering from PMS if the symptoms are so severe that you’re hindered in your daily activities. You will experience symptoms which will go away once you've had your period during the weeks leading up to your period. After that you’ll have no more symptoms for at least a week.
There are many different symptoms which form part of premenstrual syndrome. These can be both physical and mental symptoms which can hinder your normal functioning.
Physical symptoms you may experience include:
- Sensitive breasts
- Headache
- A bloated feeling
- A swollen belly
- Swollen limbs (fluid retention)
- Pain complaints
You may also suffer from psychological symptoms, including:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Trouble concentrating
- Reduced appetite
- Increased appetite
- Confusion
- Tantrums
A healthier lifestyle can help to reduce the symptoms for many women. The best thing you can do for a healthier lifestyle is:
- A healthy diet
- Plenty of exercise
- Sleeping well
A healthier lifestyle will help you to feel better. For example, try eating less sugar if you’re struggling with symptoms. You can also try to drink less alcohol or caffeine (coffee, tea and soft drinks) during the time you’re experiencing symptoms. In addition, try to exercise or participate with sports activities a few times a week and don’t forget to get plenty of sleep.
It can certainly also help if you try to anticipate the symptoms. You can keep a pain diary for this. Write down the symptoms which you feel are a result of PMS. Also write down when you get these symptoms and how many days before your period these symptoms start. This will allow you to predict when your symptoms are expected to start more effectively and approximately how severe this will be. You can take this into account in your daily life by trying to plan in more rest and relaxation time during those days.
Sometimes talking to your family, friends and/or partner about your symptoms can also help. You may be less bothered by your symptoms if they understand you and understand your symptoms. It can also help to talk to a psychologist or social worker about your symptoms. Some women like talking to other women who suffer from PMS.
You can contact your GP if you experience symptoms in your daily life which hinder you in your work or activities and the above advice hasn’t helped. He or she can look for possible solutions to reduce the pain or symptoms together with you. He or she can help you to deal with your symptoms differently, or possibly prescribe medication to relieve the pain.