In recent years, conversations about menstruation and everything related to this period have gotten louder and louder (and long overdue, frankly). But despite the increase in awareness and knowledge, myths about the menstrual cycle continue to exist and multiply. So, what do we know about premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
This is reported by the Dr. Evin website.
Myth: All women experience PMS in a severe form
Truth: No, not all of them. While it may seem like literally every woman you know becomes irritable, moody, and nervous before her period, many ladies easily experience their entire menstrual cycle. In addition, other life circumstances can certainly cause mood changes.
Yes, that's a lot (most women are like that), but the good news is that PMS symptoms in the same woman can vary, become lighter and heavier or disappear altogether. It depends on many factors - genetics, weather, nutrition, quantity and quality of sleep, vitamin levels in the body, ability to relax.
Myth: PMS doesn't exist; women make it up to justify bad moods or bad character
Truth: PMS is a group of symptoms that includes, among others, mood swings and bad moods: anger and irritability or withdrawal and depression. This is where pure physiology comes into play: some hormones reach their lowest before your period, while others rise dramatically. No wonder we are so addicted to this story.
If your mood is so bad that it's preventing you from doing your usual activities and functioning fully, consider talking to your OB/GYN about premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
This is a condition that needs to be treated, it can cause serious depression and negatively affect your performance.
Fact: PMS symptoms increase with age
According to scientists, PMS symptoms worsen in many women as they age, reaching peak severity at age 35-40. This is quite logical, given that many women aged 35-45 are in perimenopause - the transition period to menopause, during which hormone levels fluctuate and drop significantly.
Myth: You should avoid physical activity during PMS
Truth: You should actually exercise if it makes you feel better. Exercise, especially gentle physical activity like walking or yoga, can alleviate some PMS symptoms like abdominal cramps or headaches. Also, the endorphins that are produced during exercise can improve your mood if you're feeling down.
Fact: Some vitamins and minerals can ease PMS symptoms
It's true!!! Studies show that calcium and vitamin B6 can alleviate PMS symptoms - cramps, irritability, abdominal bloating, anxiety, fatigue, uncontrollable food cravings and depression. Studies have shown mixed results for magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, but the evidence is too inconclusive to unequivocally recommend these supplements as PMS symptom relievers.
It is also recommended to read the material entitled "Why men benefit from putting women in the "shadows"".
