PMS affects many women and manifests itself in the second half of the menstrual cycle. The symptoms can occur up to two weeks before your period. The symptoms usually disappear when the period begins.
There are around 150 different PMS symptoms. Over 75% of women experience these symptoms. A third of those affected experience severe symptoms.
Typical physical symptoms include breast, abdominal and headaches. Psychological changes such as mood swings also occur. The symptoms vary from woman to woman.
Key findings
- PMS occurs in the second half of the cycle
- Over 150 different symptoms are known
- More than 75% of women experience PMS symptoms
- Physical and psychological symptoms can occur in combination
- The severity of symptoms varies greatly from person to person
What is PMS
PMS means premenstrual syndrome. It includes symptoms that women experience before their period. These can be physical or psychological.
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Occurrence and duration of symptoms
PMS symptoms often begin days before menstruation. They usually disappear with the onset of menstruation. The symptoms last between two and 14 days.
Frequency in women
PMS is very common. At least 50% of women of childbearing age have premenstrual symptoms. Around a third feel restricted in their everyday life as a result.
Difference between PMS and PMDS
PMDS stands for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. It is a more severe form of PMS. PMDS affects about 3-8% of women.
The symptoms of PMDS are particularly severe. They have a massive impact on daily life.
Characteristic | PMS | PMDS |
---|---|---|
Frequency | At least 50% of women | 3-8% of women |
Severity | Mild to moderate | Severe |
Impact on everyday life | Slight restrictions | Severe impairment |
PMS is normal for many women. The symptoms can vary in severity. PMDS is the most severe form.
Hormonal changes as the main trigger
Hormonal fluctuations are the main cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The causes are not fully understood. Studies show that the symptoms can be attributed to several factors.
Oestrogen and progesterone in the cycle
The tendency to PMS increases in the second half of the cycle. The progesterone level increases, while the oestrogen level decreases. This can lead to changes in the electrolyte and fluid balance.
Interactions with neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin fluctuate with the menstrual cycle. After ovulation, serotonin levels decrease steadily. It drops rapidly shortly before menstruation.
Researchers are discussing a possible interaction between progesterone and serotonin. This could explain the PMS symptoms.
Influence on melatonin levels
Melatonin levels play an important role in PMS. In the second half of the cycle, it rises later and less strongly. This can disrupt the sleep rhythm and lead to sleep problems.
Hormone | Change in the second half of the cycle | Possible effects |
---|---|---|
Oestrogen | drop | Mood swings, irritability |
Progesterone | increase | Water retention, breast tenderness |
Serotonin | decrease | Depressive moods, ravenous appetite |
Melatonin | Delayed increase | Sleep disorders, tiredness |
The hormonal changes explain the many PMS symptoms. They have an effect on neurotransmitters. Further research is needed to understand the exact connections.
With a better understanding, new treatment options can be developed. This could help many women who suffer from PMS.
Physical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome
PMS brings with it many physical symptoms. These can vary in severity from woman to woman. Over 80% of women experience mild symptoms before their period.
Around 12% suffer from severe PMS. The symptoms occur in the second half of the cycle. They subside with the onset of menstruation.
- Headaches
- breast tenderness
- water retention
- Digestive problems
- sleep disorders
- Skin blemishes
- food cravings
The severity of the symptoms varies greatly. Some women only experience mild symptoms. Around 25% report severe symptoms that disrupt everyday life.
PMS symptom | Frequency | Possible relief |
---|---|---|
Headache | Very common | Sufficient sleep, stress reduction |
Breast tenderness | Frequently | Sports bra, cool compresses |
Water retention | Very common | Potassium-rich diet, exercise |
Digestive problems | Frequently | High-fiber diet, probiotics |
Calcium and vitamin B6 can alleviate PMS symptoms. They help in the last phase of the cycle. Spironolactone also helps with breast pain and water retention.
Psychological signs and mood swings
PMS has a strong influence on the body and psyche. Many women experience intense emotional changes. These can have a considerable impact on everyday life.
Emotional changes
Mood swings are a common symptom of PMS. Women report sudden outbursts of emotion such as sadness, irritability or anger. Around 30 out of 100 women suffer from more severe PMS symptoms.
Effects on everyday life
Emotional changes can have a major impact on quality of life. Difficulty concentrating and exhaustion often make it difficult to work or study.
In 5% to 7% of women, the symptoms are particularly intense. They can hardly fulfill their daily obligations.
Social challenges
PMS can affect social life. Relationships with family, friends and colleagues can suffer. Many women feel misunderstood or withdraw.
PMS symptom | Frequency | Impact |
---|---|---|
Mood swings | Very common | Strong emotional stress |
Concentration problems | Frequently | Impairment at work/study |
Social isolation | Occasionally | Strain on relationships |
These symptoms are part of normal hormonal changes. With knowledge and support, women can cope better. In this way, they can improve their quality of life during PMS.
Scientific findings on PMS triggers
PMS symptoms affect around 50-80% of menstruating women. Despite years of research, the exact causes are still unclear. Ethnic origin and socio-economic status do not appear to play a role.
Recent studies show a complex interplay of various factors. Hormonal fluctuations are particularly important. Hormonal fluctuations are involved in 90% of PMDS cases.
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin are also being researched. Diet and lifestyle also influence the symptoms.
A study of 3000 women produced interesting results. Fewer cigarettes, alcohol and coffee led to fewer PMS symptoms. Regular exercise also helped.
Magnesium can reduce the risk of PMS by 20%. This is shown by current research results.
PMS aspect | Scientific findings |
---|---|
Frequency | 50-80% of menstruating women |
Genetic component | Higher probability in mothers and daughters |
Hormonal factors | 90% involvement in PMDS |
Effect of magnesium | 20% risk reduction |
PMS research continues. Scientists are investigating the interactions between hormones, neurotransmitters and environmental factors. The aim is to gain a better understanding of this complex disorder.
Effective treatment options
PMS treatments are based on individual symptoms. Mild symptoms can often be alleviated by lifestyle changes. These changes can already bring noticeable improvements.
Changes in lifestyle habits
Regular exercise helps with PMS symptoms. Moderate endurance sports can reduce cravings and mood swings. A reduction in salt improves water retention in many women.
Drug therapies
Hormonal contraceptives can effectively reduce PMS symptoms. However, some users report side effects. In severe cases, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used.
Alternative treatment methods
Monk’s pepper is often used to treat breast tenderness. St. John’s wort helps with psychological PMS symptoms. Magnesium supplements can alleviate physical symptoms for many sufferers.
Treatment method | Effectiveness | Area of application |
---|---|---|
Exercise | Effective | Mood, cravings |
Salt reduction | 30-50% improvement | Water retention |
Hormonal contraception | Effective, 35% side effects | General PMS symptoms |
SSRIs | Effective for severe PMS | Mood-related symptoms |
Monk’s pepper | 50% effectiveness | Breast tenderness |
Conclusion
PMS affects around 75% of women and often impairs their quality of life. The symptoms range from mood swings to physical complaints. They usually occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
Effective PMS management can significantly improve quality of life. A balanced diet plays a key role in this. Fruit, vegetables and wholegrain products can alleviate symptoms.
Experts recommend reducing salt, sugar and caffeine. Regular exercise and stress reduction through meditation also help. Medical advice is important if symptoms persist or are severe.
A vital substance and hormone analysis can enable targeted treatments. Hormone therapies or alternative methods such as osteopathy are possible options. With the right approach, PMS can be managed effectively.