Premenstrual syndrome, also called PMS, is a set of physical and / or mental symptoms that occur a few days before menstruation. It occurs according to women, in general ten days before menstruation but sometimes a few days before, or even a few hours before.
He touches about 75% of women of childbearing age and 5% of them suffer from a more severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The symptoms of this disorder are more severe and even disabling for some women in their daily life.
What are the symptoms ?
The type of symptoms and their intensity vary by woman and from one menstrual cycle to another. They are both physical and / or psychic.
The physical symptoms :
- Digestive: abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, nausea and vomiting
- Breast pain and tenderness
- Headache
- Back pain
- Joint and muscle pain
- General fatigue
- Changes in appetite
The psychic symptoms :
- Irritability
- Mood disorders
- Anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia
- Depressed state
Do not hesitate to discuss your symptoms with your gynecologist, especially if they become overwhelming.
What is the cause of PMS?
It is still difficult today to explain PMS. There is no real established cause since each woman and each of their cycles are different.
The variation in the level of female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) during the menstrual cycle is the most accepted hypothesis. Some women seem to be more sensitive to these hormonal fluctuations.
The other avenues considered are uborn genetic predisposition, magnesium deficiency and serotonin deficiency, a brain neurotransmitter believed to regulate mood.
Preventive advice
There is no treatment for PMS. Instead, advice is given to prevent it, relieve symptoms and help women cope better.
The most important is toavoid stress relaxing or practice a regular sporting activity like yoga. Make sure you get enough rest and sleep. A modification of the diet is also recommended in order toavoid exciting : tobacco, coffee, alcohol and sugar. Prefer foods rich in protein, calcium, magnesium and of course fruits and vegetables.
Some women will favor alternative medicines such as homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine or even essential oils.
Read also :
- Painful periods: what to do?
- A link between PMS and alcohol consumption
- Female masturbation: ideal for combating period pain?
- My anti-menstrual syndrome foods
- Menstrual cycles: what they say about your health