The symptoms of PMS can vary greatly. What they all have in common is that they always occur before the menstrual period.
In Switzerland, about every tenth sexually mature woman suffers from symptoms that are assigned to the premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Women over 30 are most commonly affected. Around 5 percent are severely impaired in their everyday life. Corresponding symptoms occur before the menstrual period and are different for every woman.
Symptoms can appear a week or two before the bleeding occurs. The symptoms usually get worse as the bleeding approaches. The causes of PMS are not known. The fact is that the symptoms can be traced back to the menstrual period, since the symptoms disappear immediately after the menstrual period has been interrupted or stopped by medication or surgery.
What are the causes?
Although the question of the causes is not really clear, there are some factors that can trigger or worsen PMS:
- mental stress
- lack of exercise
- Increased prolactin level; Prolactin is a hormone that promotes breast growth and milk production.
- Thyroid disorders
- stimulants (caffeine, nicotine)
- sleep disorders
- nutrition
- Imbalance of the female sex hormones estrogen and progestin
- fungal infections
- depressions
- Various women’s diseases
- environmental toxins
- Imbalanced vitamin and mineral supply
Only rarely is just one factor responsible for the symptoms; usually several factors come together. In addition, certain factors can also influence each other, such as an imbalance in hormones and depression or sleep disorders.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of PMS can be both physical and psychological. The symptoms are similar to the menstrual cycle: they occur in a timely manner. The most common complaints include:
- Weight gain due to water retention in the tissues
- circulatory disorders
- Increased sensitivity of the breasts
- hot flashes
- tiredness, exhaustion
- sleep disorders
- Stomach cramps
- Headaches and back pain, migraines
- irritability
- difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings, depressed mood
- feelings of anxiety, nervousness
- Blemished skin
- Digestive disorders (bloating, flatulence, nausea)
- Fluctuating appetite
The large number of symptoms makes the diagnosis significantly more difficult. The only indication that points relatively clearly to PMS is the regularity over time of the symptoms that occur.
Sister, you are bleeding!
It’s the most natural thing of all, and yet women are ashamed of it. A movement fights against the taboo of the period. But the struggle is hard – especially in poor countries.
Read more here
It’s the most natural thing of all, and yet women are ashamed of it. A movement fights against the taboo of the period. But the struggle is hard – especially in poor countries.
Read more here
How can PMS be treated?
Treatment of PMS becomes necessary at the latest when the symptoms restrict the affected women in their everyday lives. Relaxation methods, yoga or autogenic training can already help against minor complaints. There is no standard therapy for treating PMS. If symptoms occur, it is definitely advisable to observe the symptoms and keep a diary about them. In this way, a medical professional is also much better able to provide help.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, medical specialists usually prescribe painkillers, hormonal contraceptives (e.g. the pill), other hormonal treatments, psychotropic drugs, antidepressants, dehydrating agents or the additional intake of vitamin B6 as part of drug therapy. There are also alternative medicines that should be consulted with a specialist.
tips for men
PMS can test a relationship because the symptoms can affect everyday life. In order to cope, it is important to support your partner physically, mentally and emotionally. Even small gestures, such as taking on household chores, can be very relieving. You should also listen as a partner and adapt to the needs of your partner.