Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is often dismissed as a myth by some, but for many women, it's a very real challenge. Symptoms vary widely: some primarily experience physical issues like cramps, abdominal pain, backache, and breast tenderness, while others grapple with emotional symptoms such as binge eating, mood swings, and irritability.
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As noted, PMS stands for Premenstrual Syndrome—a familiar term for most women, but one that often puzzles men. If you're tired of explaining 'it' to your partner, share this definition from the trusted Dutch general practitioners' resource, Thuisarts.nl:
In premenstrual syndrome (PMS), psychological and physical symptoms align with your menstrual cycle. They typically begin in the third week and resolve once your period starts, often absent for at least a week.
PMS most commonly affects women aged 35-45 and is closely tied to hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle. While no excess hormones are detected in blood tests, evidence points to heightened sensitivity to normal hormonal changes. Notably, PMS does not occur during puberty, pregnancy, or post-menopause.
Symptoms differ for every woman in type and severity, but they reliably vanish with the onset of menstruation. Tracking them via a journal can reveal the clear cyclical pattern.
The following are among the most frequent physical symptoms, though many others may also relate to PMS:
Beyond physical effects, emotional symptoms are common. Here's a selection many women recognize:
Read more about menstrual complaints and menstrual pain
I never experienced PMS before and often dismissed others' complaints as exaggeration or excuses for indulgence or moodiness.
That changed dramatically after my pregnancies, which altered my body inside and out. Previously, my cycle was unpredictable, leading to surprises. Now, I sense exactly when it's coming.
For three weeks each month, I'm my usual self—a busy working mom who's spontaneously chaotic rather than rigidly organized. The household might lag, but I'm always up for family fun. Then comes that one week when PMS transforms me.
I develop an intense drive for order. The house gets a deep clean, endless to-do lists get tackled, and long-pending tasks are cleared. At first, it's productive and welcome!
The downside? Impatience surges—for myself and my family. Plates left out or shoes not put away spark irritation I can't control. My loved ones notice the shift, their surprise mirroring my overreactions. I observe myself from afar, urging restraint, yet it continues.
In the final days, uncontrollable eating kicks in—especially sweets and snacks—on top of larger regular meals. My body bloats uncomfortably in certain areas (though not cramps, thankfully). Emotions run high: a child's toy squabble becomes a tearful moment of appreciating their joy, or my toddler's clinginess evokes bittersweet tenderness amid frustration.
Read also: Treating menstrual complaints and vaginal discharge with a steam bath
This frenzy drains me completely. Once my period arrives, I crash and spend weeks recovering, only for the cycle to repeat.
Recognizing the pattern—three weeks of half-effort, one week of catch-up—has helped. Spotting the first to-do list or extra cookie cues me in. I harness the organizational wave gently, reminding myself not to snap, aiming for harmony.
Who wouldn't want that blend of patience, efficiency, and a spotless home year-round? I'm grateful to avoid bedridden cramps, but there's room for improvement. Am I alone in this worsening pattern? Will it intensify, or signal perimenopause? Hopefully not yet—I'm still navigating these years.
Doctors recommend minimizing stress and exertion—challenging with growing kids, but essential. Boost resilience with quality sleep, nutritious eating, regular exercise, and relaxation tailored to you: a book, bath, self-massage, or walk.
Self-care helps blunt edges, but professional aid may be needed. Care for Women offers trained female specialists for PMS. Check your supplemental insurance—it might cover sessions fully.
Even without pros, confide in loved ones to foster understanding.
Supplements with targeted vitamins can ease fatigue or stabilize mood. Explore options at Flinndal and Deonlinedrogist. Paracetamol may alleviate physical discomfort.
