About one in ten sexually mature women in Switzerland suffer from symptoms assigned to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Women over the age of 30 are most commonly affected. About 5 percent are severely impaired in their daily lives. The corresponding symptoms appear before the menstrual period and are different for each woman.
Symptoms may appear a week or two before bleeding occurs. Symptoms usually worsen as bleeding approaches. The causes of PMS are unknown. The truth is that the symptoms can be traced back to the menstrual period because the symptoms disappear soon after the menstrual period is stopped or stopped with medication or surgery.
What are the reasons?
While the question of why is not entirely clear, there are some factors that can trigger or worsen PMS:
- mental stress
- lack of exercise
- Increased prolactin level; Prolactin is a hormone that promotes breast growth and milk production.
- thyroid disorders
- stimulants (caffeine, nicotine)
- sleeping disorders
- nutrition
- Imbalance of the female sex hormones estrogen and progestin
- fungal infections
- depressions
- Various gynecological diseases
- environmental toxins
- Unbalanced source of vitamins and minerals
Rarely, a single factor is responsible for the symptoms; Often several factors come together. In addition, some factors such as hormonal imbalance and depression or sleep disorders can affect each other.
What are the symptoms?
PMS symptoms can be both physical and psychological. Symptoms are similar to the menstrual cycle: they appear on time. The most common complaints include:
- Weight gain due to water retention in the tissues
- circulatory disorders
- Increase in breast tenderness
- hot flashes
- fatigue, exhaustion
- sleeping disorders
- abdominal cramps
- Headache and backache, migraine
- irritability
- difficulty concentrating
- mood changes, depressed mood
- feelings of anxiety, irritability
- blotchy skin
- Digestive disorders (bloating, flatulence, nausea)
- fluctuating appetite
A large number of symptoms significantly complicates the diagnosis. The only indicator that points relatively clearly to PMS is the regularity of the symptoms that occur over time.
How can PMS be treated?
Treatment of PMS becomes necessary at the latest when symptoms limit the affected women in their daily lives. Relaxation methods, yoga or autogenic exercises can already help with minor complaints. There is no standard treatment for PMS treatment. If symptoms do occur, it is highly recommended to observe the symptoms and keep a diary of them. In this way, a medical professional can also provide much better assistance.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, medical professionals often include pain relievers, hormonal contraceptives (eg, alternative medicine) as part of the medication regimen (eg a specialist should be consulted).
tips for men
PMS can test for a relationship because symptoms can affect daily life. It’s important to support your partner physically, mentally, and emotionally to cope. Even small gestures like taking on chores can be very comforting. As a partner, you must listen and adapt to your partner’s needs.