Pre-Menstrual Symptoms (PMS)

Simply put, PMS is a range of emotional and physical symptoms that women suffer, at or before, their period starts. The symptoms usually clear when bleeding starts but for some women they can persist for a day or so longer.

Although, period pain is not usually included in the definition of PMS, many symptoms have been described as pre-menstrual, the most common being:

• Headache
• Cramps
• Acne
• Backache
• Breast swelling or tenderness
• Bloating and water retention
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Depression, irritability and tension.

The way women experience these symptoms varies considerably. While some women suffer considerably, others do not experience any of the above symptoms. The general consensus amongst medical practitioners is that some 70-90% of women suffer pre-menstrual symptoms during their reproductive years, 4% suffer badly and need help and 2-6% have severe and sometimes incapacitating symptoms

Heavy Bleeding
Although the amount of blood loss per month varies enormously, depending on the individual, from a few teaspoons to half a litre, this amount tends to remain constant for that individual for the span of their reproductive years.

Remembering that heavy discharge for one woman could be normal for another, it is worth seeing a doctor if periods change and become heavier. As describing this to a Doctor can be difficult, it is possible to measure the discharge with a doctor’s assistance. The medical fraternity defines heavy menstrual bleeding (called menorrhagia) when discharge is more than 80mls in one period.

Look After Yourself
Dealing with the emotional and physical changes in our lives requires balance, a good diet and forward planning. Minimizing stress is also a critical factor. Think of ways in which you can deal with stressful situations, by taking the time to relax. Even a hot bath, a walk can help or indulge in a body massage. For good health try and exercise at least 3 times a week, by walking, cycling, tennis or jogging and eat well.