What is PMS?
PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a group of symptoms that many women experience before their menstrual cycle begins. Approximately 75% of women experience PMS before they start their period. However, the severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person. PMS can be mild for some women and severe for others. Only 20-40% of women experience symptoms severe enough to affect their daily lives.
Symptoms of PMS
Mild PMS Symptoms:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Mild cramps
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty focusing
These symptoms are mild enough to not affect day-to-day life.
Severe PMS Symptoms:
- Severe mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability or anger
- Extreme fatigue
- Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation
- Feeling overwhelmed
These symptoms are severe enough to interfere with day-to-day activities. If you are experiencing severe PMS symptoms, it is important to seek professional help from a healthcare provider to manage your symptoms better.
Support and Measures
Lifestyle Changes:
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help manage symptoms. Avoid salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol intake as much as possible.
- Regular Exercise: Exercising regularly can help reduce symptoms by boosting mood and energy levels.
- Sufficient Sleep: Make sure to get 8 hours of sleep every day. This will make you feel more rejuvenated and ready for the day.
Approximately 75% of women experience premenstrual syndrome before their menstrual cycle, out of which 20-40% have severe symptoms. Mild symptoms are manageable and do not hinder day-to-day activities, whereas severe symptoms can significantly affect daily life. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, seek professional guidance to help manage your symptoms better.
