It is estimated that PMS affects up to 50% of women of all ages. The condition mainly affects women, whose bodies produce fewer active serotonin receptors - a hormone that acts as a sedative - during this period.

All because of hormones

PMS becomes noticeable about a week before the planned menstruation, at which time our body and mind are adversely affected by PROGESTERONE, which starts to be secreted in the body. The ovaries start secreting it around the fourteenth day of the cycle. Already then problems with concentration start, irritability appears and our brain starts to work more slowly. Resistance to stress decreases.

The emotional turmoil that emerges makes feelings of helplessness and depressive moods increase. Most women are more likely to scream, cry or feel anxious and fearful. Mood volatility guaranteed plus a weight gain of 2 to 4 kg. Despite its many disadvantages, progesterone is essential, e.g. because it is responsible for maintaining the pregnancy throughout its duration.

Symptoms of Premenstrual Tension

In addition to the emotional ones already mentioned, there are also physical ones. Due to water retention in the body, swelling of the legs and face, soreness of the breasts, migraine headaches and dizziness, gastrointestinal problems (flatulence, constipation), back pain or skin eczema are common. Infections of any kind are much more frequent, due to a decrease in immunity.

Some women additionally experience increased sweating and a feeling of heat, visual problems, deterioration of motor coordination or a change in appetite. In addition, premenstrual syndrome can aggravate the course of certain chronic diseases, such as asthma or diabetes.

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Active lifestyle wins against PMS

In the fight against PMS, our lifestyle is extremely important. Women who have an active lifestyle, play sports and eat healthily are much less likely to suffer from premenstrual syndrome.

Mental attitude is also extremely important. Optimistic women tolerate the second phase of the cycle better than pessimistic women, who additionally suffer from the fear of feeling unwell, which exacerbates the symptoms. The time of year is also important. The lack of natural light makes premenstrual periods in autumn and winter much more difficult to endure.

Home remedies for PMS

Diet, elimination of stress factors and an active lifestyle play an important role in combating premenstrual tension. It is advisable to limit salt, sugar and stimulants in your diet during this period, while increasing the intake of products rich in fibre, vitamins A, B, C and D and magnesium. Eat regularly (3 meals a day plus fruit and vegetables are an absolute must) and get at least 8 hours sleep. There are various remedies available at the pharmacy, ranging from dietary supplements rich in vitamins and minerals to special herbal remedies to relieve PMS symptoms.

Herbal preparations with calming properties, such as lemon balm, are also recommended. When the pain in the lower abdomen and breasts is very strong, diastolic painkillers - available without a prescription - can help. Aromatic oils can be inhaled or a warm bath can provide relief. And let's not forget the benefits of massage. Gently massaging the lower back will certainly ease menstrual cramps.

Seek advice from your doctor

If you notice that your PMS symptoms make it difficult for you to function, interfere with your work or last longer than a week, you should see a specialist. In such a situation, a gynaecologist or endocrinologist will order a hormone level test, which will allow you to choose the best hormone treatment.