What exactly is PMS?
PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome and describes symptoms that many women may experience before their period. The symptoms usually appear in the days leading up to the period and often disappear once menstruation begins.
The severity of PMS can vary greatly from person to person. Some women notice only mild changes, while others feel significantly less resilient or balanced during this phase.
PMS is widespread and affects women at various stages of life. Even though the symptoms can be distressing for many, it is a common phenomenon of the female cycle.
Typical PMS Symptoms
PMS can manifest in various ways and trigger both physical and emotional symptoms. The symptoms usually appear a few days before a period and can vary in severity from woman to woman.
1. Physical Symptoms
The most common physical symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or lower abdominal cramps
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Sleep problems
- Bloating or water retention
- Changes in appetite
2. Emotional and psychological symptoms
Mood can also change before menstruation. Many women report the following during this time:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- inner restlessness
- increased sensitivity
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of motivation or low energy
Symptoms can vary from cycle to cycle and be experienced with varying intensity.
The Causes of PMS
The causes of PMS can vary from woman to woman. Often, several factors play a role at the same time.
- Hormonal fluctuations during the cycle
- Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels
- The influence of neurotransmitters such as serotonin
- Stress and emotional strain
- Lack of sleep or exhaustion
- Diet and lifestyle
- Genetic predisposition
These changes can contribute to physical and emotional symptoms, particularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle.
Differences Between PMS and PMDS
PMS and PMDS both occur before menstruation, but differ in the severity of symptoms.
1. PMS
- Frequent physical and emotional symptoms before menstruation
- Symptoms are usually mild to moderate
- Daily life is often still manageable
2. PMDS
- A more severe form of PMS
- Symptoms can significantly interfere with daily life
- Frequent severe mood swings, anxiety, or depressive moods
- Often accompanied by severe physical symptoms
While PMS affects many women, PMDD is much less common and should be managed under medical supervision.
What can help with PMS?
Many women find that a combination of relaxation, exercise, and mindful routines helps them cope better with PMS.
Here’s what can help with PMS:
- regular exercise and light activity
- enough sleep and rest
- Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation
- a balanced diet
- Reducing stress as much as possible
- Warmth, herbal teas, or periods of rest
- Conscious self-care in everyday life
Many women also find natural and herbal remedies to be helpful during their menstrual cycle.
Herbal remedies for PMS
These medicinal plants are traditionally used to naturally alleviate PMS symptoms such as mood swings, abdominal cramps, and restlessness, and to support well-being during the menstrual cycle.
- Chasteberry is traditionally used to support the female cycle and balance hormonal fluctuations.
- Angelica is often used to support general well-being during menstruation.
- Cucumber is traditionally used to treat cramping and abdominal pain.
- Yam is traditionally used to support hormonal balance.
- Kermesberry is frequently used in naturopathy to support women’s well-being.
- Kava-kava is known for its relaxing properties and is traditionally used to treat inner restlessness and tension.
