Period and Moodswings
“Emotional” is often a word that is often being linked to a woman on her period.
But what does that really mean? Why are women experiencing mood swings during that time of the month? Let’s dive into what premenstrual syndrome (PMS) means.
PMS is a group of emotional and physical symptoms that begin about a week before your period. Some people report being moodier than normal while others report feeling bloated and tired.
In the weeks preceding their period, the natural hormone changes that take place during the menstrual cycle can cause hypersensitivity in certain persons. Premenstrual mood fluctuations may be a result of this hypersensitivity. Mood swings are characterized by an abrupt, unexplainable change in mood. It’s possible to wake up in a fantastic mood but notice that an hour or two later, for no apparent reason, you start to get furious and unpleasant. A woman can feel sadness, irritability, anxiety, and anger during the dreaded red days.
These symptoms are fairly prevalent. At least 90% of people who menstruate experience physical or mental symptoms of PMS, according to one estimate. The symptoms are usually not too severe for women. But 3-8% of women experience PMDD during their reproductive years.
An extreme case of PMS is called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The severity and length of symptoms are the main distinctions between PMS and PMDD.
Significant mood fluctuations are a symptom of PMDD and can harm interpersonal and professional relationships. When this happens, it is best to consult a doctor.
Tips on how to manage mood swings:
Mood diary: Women can keep track of their mood fluctuations and when they occur during their menstrual cycle. This can assist a person in recognizing the hormonal origins of their mood swings and anticipating them.
Balanced diet: Low in added sweets, sodium, and caffeine may help to decrease mood swings. Regular exercise can alleviate the mental and physical symptoms of PMS and PMDD.
Reducing stress: Yoga, meditation, making time for things that you enjoy, or talking therapy can assist to reduce stress and balance mood.
Watson, S. (2019, March 8). PMS mood swings: Why they happen, treatments, and finding support. Healthline. Retrieved June 22, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/pms-mood-swings#management MediLexicon International. (n.d.). Period mood swings: PMS, symptoms, and treatments. Medical News Today. Retrieved June 22, 2022, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/period-mood-swings#treatment
