Cramps, mood swings, fatigue, and bloating–if you’re a person who menstruates, you’re likely to be familiar with PMS (premenstrual syndrome). The symptoms can hit you like a hurricane a week before your period arrives. If you do the math, you’ll realise that amounts to almost half a month of period misery. But the problem doesn’t end there.
Apart from these common symptoms, there are certain PMS woes that no one talks about. Blame it on period stigma or the unconventionality of these symptoms, they’re simply brushed under the carpet. However, studies show that more than 75% of people who menstruate are affected by this condition. Here are five of the strangest side-effects of PMS that you might have experienced:
Period Poop
You’re likely to make frequent visits to the loo during or before your period. This is because the body produces a hormone called prostaglandin which triggers uterine contractions. If your body produces it in excess, it can have a similar effect on your bowels. As a result, you can end up pooping more.
Period Flu
Period flu has nothing to do with the actual flu. It’s just a casual term to describe how crummy some people feel during or before their period. Flu-like symptoms of PMS such as body ache, headache, and nausea can make you think you’re getting sick. But it only happens because of the sudden estrogen (female sex hormone) drop during your period.
While many people pop painkillers to combat the pain, we’d advice you against doing so. According to a 2016 study, regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can damage vital organs like the kidney and heart. They can also deplete the stomach lining and lead to ulcers. The solution? Enter Sirona’s Pain Relief Heat Patch. These sleek patches are made of natural actives and can be easily stuck on the area affected by the pain. They can provide instant relief and stay effective for up to eight hours. The best part? They have no side-effects whatsoever.
Breast Tenderness
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, more than 50% of women suffer from breast pain during PMS. FYI, breast tenderness and soreness is normal before your period. It’s called cyclic mastalgia and it happens because the hormonal imbalance can swell up the breast ducts and milk glands. It subsides automatically after the period.
Difficulty In Focussing
Fortunately, studies have proven that period-related hormonal changes have no effect on your cognitive performance or brain function. However, the pain and fatigue during PMS can make it difficult for you to focus. This can hamper your performance and make your life difficult. The root cause of the pain is hormonal imbalance and nutritional deficiencies. But you can work on them by eating the Sirona’s PMS Gummies. Rich in vitamin B6 and Dong Quai (female ginseng), these chewable gummies can help you feel energetic and reduce pain. According to experts, regular consumption of one gummy a day can put an end to all your PMS woes.
Emotional Instability
“Are you PMS-ing?” Isn’t that the most annoying reaction when you have mood swings? However, if you’re particularly prone to meltdowns before or during your period, it may actually have something to do with PMS. According to a study conducted in 2016, several women suffer from a severe mood disorder called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Characterized by strong bouts of anxiety, depression, and anger, it can kick in 3-4 days before your period and last for about a week. This condition needs medical intervention. So, please don’t hesitate in reaching out to a doctor.
Common or not, PMS symptoms can get the better of us. But the awareness and acknowledgement of these issues can help us manage them better. Here’s to a happy, hassle-free period!
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