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22-Sep-2023

PMS Meltdown? Decoding the Monthly Cycle

You're having a perfectly lovely day, the sun shining, birds singing, and suddenly, BOOM! Your mood takes a nosedive to the depths of despair, and you are about as cheerful as a rainy day without an umbrella. Welcome to the world of PMS- Premenstrual Syndrome!

While it's often the subject of jokes and stereotypes, PMS is a real and sometimes challenging experience for those who endure it. The good news is that it can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications prescribed by medical professionals right from the comfort of your home.

What is PMS?

PMS, also known as premenstrual syndrome, is like a monthly visitor who forgets to knock and barges into your emotional party. It's a cassette of physical and emotional symptoms that appear clockwise in the days leading up to your menses more commonly called the periods. These symptoms can range from mild irritability to full-blown mood swings that drive a rollercoaster in your whole body.

According to the National Institute of Health, 90% of women of reproductive age experience several premenstrual symptoms varying from mild to severe during menstruation.

Take control of your menstrual journey with smart choices. Book an appointment with an online Gynecologist today on MetaHealth Cover. Because your well-being matters the most!

Period Drama: Understanding PMS Symptoms

It is like a bag of tricks bearing physical, emotional, and mental pain. Ladies, you will likely nod your heads in recognition as we go further to express these concerns. Let's hop in!

Physical Signs

Abdominal Cramping: The first stop on our PMS journey! It's like a mini-earthquake in your belly, causing discomfort and, at times, outright pain.

Bloated Balloon: Next, we have the bloated balloon effect. Your belly puffs up like a balloon at a birthday party, and you suddenly understand how those balloons feel, squeezed and stretched to their limits.

Headaches: Now the unwelcome guest! Those pounding headaches can make you scratch your head in pain. Painkillers might become your best friends, as you start measuring time in the intervals between medications.

Acne Attack: Your skin starts to rebel like a teenager. You're armed with concealers and spot treatments to hide the dilemma.

Breast Tenderness: Your breasts become sensitive and feel as if they've been used as punching bags. They are more like a tender emotional baggage than body parts- sore, swollen, and sensitive.

Mental Signs

Mood Swings: Ah, the famous mood swings! One moment, you're laughing at a cat meme, and the next, you are crying over a spilled glass of water. Blame it on the hormonal fluctuations, but these mood swings during menstruation are the hallmark of PMS.

Irritability and Anxiety: PMS turns up the volume for annoyance, and suddenly, the sound of someone chewing gum is as unbearable as nails on a chalkboard, making you more anxious about everything.

Difficulty Concentrating: As if all this emotional turmoil isn't enough, PMS throws you in a curveball making it difficult to concentrate. Your brain decides to go on vacation right when you need it most, leaving you staring blankly at that spreadsheet or that textbook.

When to see a Doctor?

While PMS is common, there are cases where it can become severe, interfering with your daily life. Therefore, it is advised to speak to your doctor about the PMS treatment options available that suits you. Below are some signs that need medical supervision-

A Clash of Titans

Severe symptoms, like debilitating cramps, uncontrollable mood swings, or migraine-level headaches need professional attention.

Mysterious Intruders

If you're noticing some unusual symptoms like sudden migraines, extreme fatigue, and bizarre food cravings showing up unannounced, don't play the guessing game. Take action immediately.

PMS vs.Well-being

Lastly, if those pre-period mood swings take a toll on you, interfering with your work, relationships, or other aspects of life, don't hesitate to get help from an online Gynecologist.

If you find that your PMS symptoms are overwhelmingly intense, consult a Gynecologist on MetaHealth Cover for personalized treatment. They may recommend dietary changes, recommend exercise, and provide medications depending on your condition.

6 Quick Solutions for PMS Relief

1. Dietary Tweaks- Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet while reducing sugar, caffeine, and alcohol intake to feel better.

2. Regular Exercise- Engage in regular physical activities like yoga and dance. This small routine can work as a game-changer to ease and lift your mood.

3. Heat Therapy- Applying a heating pad to your abdomen can help soothe cramps and provide comfort to your stomach and your whole body.

4. Stress Management- Deal with premenstrual stress with journaling. Write down your thoughts and feelings to cope with the emotional turmoil.

5. Dark Chocolate- Yes, you read that right! Dark chocolate, in moderation, can be your ally against PMS. Its magical powers can boost your mood and make you feel relaxed.

6. Herbal Tea- Sip on a cup of herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint to calm down and soothe your whole body. It's like a warm hug for your soul during the stormy days.

Conclusion

Premenstrual Syndrome is a complex and puzzling aspect of many women's lives. Understanding the symptoms, knowing when to seek medical guidance, and exploring various home remedies make it possible to manage and minimize the discomfort. Remember that every woman's experience is unique, so patience and self-compassion are key to handling the ebbs and flows of this natural hormonal cycle.

Disclaimer- The above write-up is for educational purposes only and does not eliminate medical advice. Please consult a Gynecologist for proper guidance and personalized treatment.