Female issues
Breast Cancer Anxiety And Depression Women Pregnancy And Reproductory Health Hormonal Issues
Breast Cancer
Anxiety And Depression Women
Coming Soon...
Pregnancy And Reproductory Health
Coming Soon...
Hormonal Issues
All about PMS and Menstruation.
Menstruation, commonly referred to as a period, is a physiological process that occurs in the female during puberty. It involves the monthly shedding of the uterine lining, which is expelled through the vagina as blood and tissue.
-
Menstruation usually begins during puberty, when hormonal changes in the body trigger the maturation of the ovaries and the release of eggs in a process called ovulation.
-
If the released egg is not fertilized by sperm, the thickened uterine lining is no longer needed to support a potential pregnancy, and it is shed through the vagina as menstrual blood.
-
The average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, although cycles can range from 21 to 35 days or longer.
-
Menstrual flow can vary in color, consistency, and amount, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as cramping, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, and fatigue. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person and may be managed with various methods such as pain relief medication, heating pads, and hormonal contraceptives.
Menstruation is a natural and normal part of the menstrual cycle and is generally considered a sign of reproductive health. However, it can also be a source of discomfort and inconvenience for some individuals and may require medical attention if accompanied by severe pain, heavy bleeding, irregular cycles, or other concerning symptoms.
What is PMS?
PMS stands for Pre-Menstrual Syndrome. It refers to a collection of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that occur in the days or weeks leading up to menstruation in females. PMS is estimated to affect up to 75% of menstruating individuals at some point in their lives, and the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.
PMS symptoms typically resolve once menstruation begins, although they can vary in duration and intensity from person to person.
Mood swings during periods, also known as premenstrual mood swings or menstrual-related mood changes, are common experiences for many individuals who menstruate. Hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle specifically changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to changes in mood and emotions.
1. During the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise in the first half and then drop in the second half, while progesterone levels rise.
2. These hormonal changes can affect the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood, in the brain.
3. The resulting imbalance in serotonin levels may contribute to mood swings and emotional changes during the premenstrual period.
Mood swings during periods can manifest as a wide range of emotions, including irritability, anxiety, sadness, anger, and moodiness. These mood changes can vary in intensity and duration from person to person and may be accompanied by other physical and emotional symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
What should men do during PMS?
As premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects individuals who menstruate, it is not directly applicable to men, as they do not experience menstruation or hormonal fluctuations in the same way. However, if you have a partner, friend, or family member who experiences PMS, there are several supportive actions that men, or anyone in a supportive role, can take:
-
Show empathy and understanding: Recognize that PMS is a real and often challenging experience for many individuals who menstruate. Offer empathy and understanding, and avoid dismissing or belittling their emotions or symptoms.
-
Educate yourself: Learn about PMS and its symptoms, so you can better understand what your partner or loved one may be going through. Understanding the hormonal and emotional changes that occur during PMS can help you respond with empathy and patience.
-
Be patient and non-judgmental: PMS symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person. Be patient and non-judgmental, and avoid criticizing or blaming your partner or loved one for their mood swings or other PMS symptoms.
-
Offer practical support: Offer practical support by helping with household chores, cooking meals, or running errands during times when your partner or loved one may be feeling physically or emotionally drained due to PMS.
-
Listen actively: Be a good listener and offer a supportive ear. Allow your partner or loved one to express their feelings and concerns without judgment, and offer validation and reassurance.
-
Respect their boundaries: Respect your partner or loved one’s need for space or alone time if they express that during PMS. Some individuals may prefer solitude or quiet time during this period, and respecting their boundaries can be supportive.
-
Encourage self-care: Encourage your partner or loved one to practice self-care during PMS, such as getting enough rest, eating well, staying hydrated, and engaging in relaxation techniques or activities that help them manage stress.
It’s important to communicate openly with your partner or loved one and ask them how they prefer to be supported during their PMS. Every person is different, and what may be helpful for one person may not be for another. By offering empathy, understanding, and practical support, you can help your partner or loved one navigate the challenges of PMS in a supportive and caring manner.
How should one manage PMS?
Self-management of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) involves various strategies that individuals who menstruate can implement to help alleviate and manage their symptoms. Here are some self-management tips for PMS:
-
Keep a symptom diary: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle and noting any changes in mood, physical symptoms, and behavior can help you identify patterns and anticipate when PMS symptoms may occur. So that one may able to control their emotions and behavior in a better way.
-
Practice stress management techniques: Stress can exacerbate PMS symptoms, so finding effective stress management techniques can be helpful. This may include practices such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or other relaxation techniques that work for you.
-
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can help support your overall well-being and may help reduce the severity of PMS symptoms.
-
Avoid triggers: Some individuals find that certain foods, beverages, or lifestyle factors can trigger or worsen their PMS symptoms. Keeping a note of any triggers and avoiding them as much as possible can be beneficial. Common triggers may include caffeine, alcohol, salty foods, and high-sugar foods.
-
Get support: Reach out to friends, family, or a support group to talk about your experiences and seek emotional support. Sometimes, simply sharing your thoughts and feelings with a supportive person can make a difference in managing PMS symptoms.
-
Consider dietary supplements: Some studies suggest that certain dietary supplements, such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and omega-3 fatty acids, may have a positive effect on reducing PMS symptoms for some individuals. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.
-
Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself during PMS can be important. Engage in activities that you enjoy, practice self-compassion, and prioritize self-care. This may include hobbies, leisure activities, or engaging in self-soothing techniques that help you feel better.
It's important to remember that self-management strategies for PMS may work differently for different individuals, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to pay attention to your body and symptoms and consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan if PMS symptoms are interfering with your daily activities or quality of life.
Homoeopathy and PMS
Homeopathy management includes a well-taken case with the individualistic totality of all mental and physical symptoms and then selecting a specific remedy based on the former. This is the best treatment choice.
Few medicines which can be considered only under the supervision of a homeopathic medical practitioner (because their selection is based upon many factors) for PMS are as follows:
1. Sepia: This remedy is recommended for individuals who experience mood swings, irritability, and a sense of indifference or detachment during PMS. It can also be used for those who have heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular periods.
2. Lachesis: This remedy is used for individuals who experience intense mood swings, particularly with anger or jealousy, during PMS. It can also be used for those who have breast tenderness or hot flashes.
3. Pulsatilla: This remedy is recommended for individuals who have to change or shift symptoms during PMS, such as mood swings, weepiness, and cravings for comfort foods. It can also be used for those who have irregular menstrual periods.
4. Natrum muriaticum: This remedy is indicated for individuals who experience sadness, depression, or mood swings during PMS. It can also be used for those who have headaches, bloating or water retention.
5. Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is indicated for individuals who experience fatigue, anxiety, or mood swings during PMS. It can be used for those who have heavy menstrual bleeding or cramping.
6. Ignatia : Ignatia is very beneficial for treatment of PMS and is the best remedy for depression and mood swings in women with PMS. Ignatia can be taken by all women suffering from a sad and depressed emotional state before periods. Along with sadness, there is an aversion to company. Such women desire to be left alone and keep on weeping for long. Women who experience sudden mood swings prior to their menstrual cycle can also benefit by the use of Ignatia. The mood suddenly changes from joy to sadness and Ignatia is the best natural remedy.
7. Bryonia : This remedy is indicated for excessive heaviness and pain in breasts before menses. The pain is accompanied by the need to hold the breast to get some relief. In Bryonia constipation is associated with PMS.
8. Conium Mac: Conium is the best remedy for treating breast tenderness in women as part of Premenstrual Syndrome. Conium is very beneficial for women who undergo swelling, enlargement and pain in breast before their periods. The pain gets worse by touching. Along with pain, the breast also becomes hard.
It’s important to keep in mind that selecting the appropriate homeopathic remedy requires the guidance of a licensed practitioner, as every person’s symptoms and health conditions are unique.
Homeopathic medicines should be taken only when prescribed by a homeopathic physician. Self-medication may aggravate the original conditions.