Premenstrual Syndrome
Around ninety percent of women
suffer from a form of premenstrual syndrome or PMS – it’s like an advanced
warning system that lets women know their period is coming.
Most women suffer
from different forms of PMS but typically it manifests as irritability, mood
swings, losing your temper, crying for no apparent reason and aggression.
Physical symptoms include swollen breasts, ankles or abdomen, weight gain and headaches. It’s not a particularly appealing aspect of being a woman,
but it can be controlled.
Simple changes to your diet
and lifestyle can help, including cutting out caffeine and tobacco. There are
also supplements available, such as vitamin B6, which helps with mood swings
and irritability; and evening primrose oil, which may reduce the symptoms of
painful breasts. Some women find that using homeopathic remedies can help with PMS.
There are many treatments
available, especially for severe period pain, so it consult your physician, who can tailor your
treatments depending on you. The good news is that PMS should have no affect
on your ability to get pregnant – and some women report that their symptoms are
less severe after having a baby.
The information in this feature is intended for
educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the
health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a
doctor or other healthcare professional.