- March 20, 2025
Do you experience extensive mood swings and overwhelming emotions right before your period? One day you are full of confidence, and the next day you feel irritated and crave chocolate. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects millions of women. But why does this happen? And more importantly, is there a way to manage it?
In this blog, we will answer these questions by explaining the symptoms and causes of PMS. We will also mention the treatments we offer at our clinic and address the myths surrounding the condition.
A] What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Premenstrual Syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS, is a group of symptoms, both physical and emotional. You will notice these symptoms about 1-2 weeks before your period, and they will go away once the period starts. For some women these symptoms are mild and don’t cause any major issues. However, for some women these issues are severe and can become a hurdle in daily life. Such severe cases are known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
PMS is a natural part of the menstruation cycle and happens due to hormonal changes. While there may not be any way to get rid of it, with proper lifestyle management, you can surely reduce its effects.
B] Common Symptoms of PMS
PMS symptoms are of two types: physical and emotional.
Physical Symptoms:
- Tenderness or swelling in breasts.
- Bloating and excess water retention.
- Frequent headaches and migraines.
- Pain in joints and muscles.
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea.
- Feeling fatigued and low on energy.
- Frequent cramps.
- Cravings for sweet and salty foods, most commonly chocolates.
Emotional Symptoms:
- Menstruation-related mood swings and irritability.
- Unexpected feelings of stress and anxiety.
- Unexplained sadness and depression.
- Unable to fall asleep or excessive sleepiness.
- Burnout-like feeling.
- Difficulty concentrating on tasks.
- Feelings of anger (even for minor inconveniences).
The severity of these symptoms may vary from woman to woman.
C] Causes and What Makes It Worse
PMS is primarily caused by hormonal changes during the menstruation cycle. Around 1-2 weeks before your period, progesterone and oestrogen levels fluctuate. This causes moodiness, tiredness, anxiety, and fatigue. Dopamine and serotonin production also fluctuates during this time, contributing to depression, anxiety, and food cravings.
While these conditions are bound to happen, certain lifestyle choices can make them worse. These include eating processed foods and foods high in sugar and caffeine, lack of physical activity, and insufficient sleep. Stress also increases cortisol, which disrupts hormonal balance.
D] PMS Treatments We Offer At Nurturing Petals
While there isn’t any permanent solution for PMS, it can be managed through timely medical intervention. At our gynaecological clinic in Andheri East, we offer effective and safe solutions that you can use in your life.
1. Personalised Consultation and Diagnosis
During your initial consultation, Dr. Milind Chavan will analyse your medical history and symptoms to tailor a personalised treatment program. We conduct necessary hormonal tests and identify any imbalances that may be contributing to severe PMS symptoms.
2. Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance
A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet can curb severe PMS symptoms. We help you choose the right foods and develop good lifestyle habits according to your daily routine. We understand that not everyone has the time or resources for resting through the week. Hence, we try to make small adjustments to your existing lifestyle and diet for managing PMS naturally. Even small lifestyle changes can help manage PMS mood swings.
3. Medical Treatments
For severe cases, we provide medically approved treatments like birth control pills or progesterone supplements. You must only get medication after consulting a doctor, as these medicines may have side effects.
If you are nervous about your first visit to the gynaecologist, read our guide: Everything To Know About Your First Gynaecologist Visit
E] Common PMS Myths
Myth 1: PMS Happens To Everyone
While around 90% of women have some symptoms, PMS usually only occurs in around 20-40% of women of reproductive age.
Myth 2: PMS is a Made-up Problem
PMS is a real health problem and occurs due to hormonal changes. Its effects can be seen as physical and emotional symptoms like cramps, headaches, mood swings, and cravings.
Myth 3: Exercise Doesn’t Affect Emotional Symptoms
Regular exercise can help to keep a healthy hormonal balance. As a result, women who exercise regularly experience fewer mood swings and emotional triggers.
Myth 4: Teenage Girls are More Likely to Experience PMS
Women of any age who are menstruating can experience PMS. However, women between their late 20s and early 40s are more likely to have severe symptoms.
Myth 5: Supplements Will Only Make the Symptoms Worse
While the majority of supplements may not have any effect on PMS, calcium and vitamin B6 are shown to ease cramps, irritability, bloating, anxiety, fatigue, cravings, and depression. You can get these vitamins and minerals from your diet as well. Consult a gynaecologist before taking any supplement.
F] When to Seek Medical Help
For most women, PMS symptoms will not be severe enough to disrupt daily life. However, if the symptoms are severe for you or if they persist for more than 2 weeks, scheduling a routine check is recommended. Book an appointment today for a personalised and safe treatment.
Conclusion
Premenstrual syndrome is a common yet manageable condition that affects many women. It can manifest physical and emotional symptoms like cramps, headaches, bloating, mood swings, and anxiety. However, lifestyle adjustments, following a balanced diet, and seeking medical support can significantly reduce the impact.
If PMS symptoms are affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Nurturing Petals, we offer personalised consultations, lifestyle guidance, and medical treatments to help you live a comfortable life. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthy menstrual cycle.
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