PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) typically begins during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which is after ovulation and around 1-2 weeks before your period starts. Symptoms can vary and may occur anywhere from a few days to two weeks before menstruation and generally resolve with the start of the period. The exact timing and duration of PMS can differ from woman to woman.
Common symptoms include mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches. These symptoms arise from hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle, which can influence neurotransmitters like serotonin that regulate mood.
PMS Support Solution
PMS is caused by hormonal changes, primarily the fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone. The severity of symptoms varies widely, with some women experiencing mild discomfort and others experiencing significant disruptions to daily life.
Hormones That Impact Mental Health
Key hormones that play a role in PMS include:
- Estrogen: Levels rise and fall during the cycle, impacting serotonin production.
- Progesterone: Can have a calming effect but its rapid drop before menstruation can lead to mood swings.
- Cortisol: The stress hormone, which may elevate anxiety when not regulated properly during PMS.
Here are opinions from three women on how they experience PMS:
- Anna (25 years old): "I feel super emotional during PMS—tiny things make me tear up. I also get really bloated and my cravings for sweets go through the roof."
- Sophie (35 years old): "My PMS is mostly about mood swings. One moment I'm fine, and the next I feel super irritable. I also get headaches and feel exhausted easily."
- Megan (42 years old): "PMS for me is mostly anxiety and insomnia. I get restless, overthink everything, and feel tense all over. It's like a wave of unease before my period starts."
Approximately 75-90% of women of reproductive age experience some form of PMS symptoms. The most common symptom reported is mood swings or irritability, followed by symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and breast tenderness. However, the severity and type of symptoms can vary widely, with around 20-40% experiencing moderate symptoms and 3-8% having PMDD, which is a more severe form of PMS.
What is the difference between PMS and PMDD?
PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) is a severe form of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) characterized by intense emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with daily life. While both PMS and PMDD occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, PMDD symptoms are more severe and disabling.
Differences:
- Emotional Intensity: PMDD causes severe mood swings, depression, and anxiety, which are much more intense than those seen in PMS.
- Impact on Daily Life: PMDD significantly affects daily functioning, relationships, and mental health, whereas PMS symptoms are generally milder and manageable.
Managing Mental Health Challenges During PMS
Managing mental health during PMS is essential for well-being. Here are some methods that may help:
- Dietary Changes: Consuming foods rich in magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B6 can help stabilize mood.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost endorphin levels, improving mood and reducing stress.
- Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can aid in calming anxiety and lifting mood.
- Supplements: Certain natural supplements like chasteberry, evening primrose oil, or calcium can be helpful in managing PMS symptoms.
Watch this post on Instagram to learn how the different phases of your menstrual cycle impact your life and what steps you can take to prevent PMS symptoms from disrupting your routine.
Ultimately, PMS can have a strong impact on mental health, but there are various natural ways to manage and cope with these symptoms, promoting overall well-being without necessarily resorting to hormone therapy.
Natural ingredients are often preferred for reducing PMS symptoms because they tend to have fewer side effects than synthetic medications and support the body’s natural processes. Many natural herbs and adaptogens help balance hormones, reduce stress, and improve mood without disrupting the body's hormonal rhythm. Additionally, they can provide a holistic approach by addressing not just individual symptoms but overall well-being, supporting physical and emotional health together. This makes them a gentler, more balanced option for many seeking relief from PMS symptoms.
The Lumiway PMS Support supplement is crafted to reduce PMS symptoms. It targets both emotional and physical symptoms, providing comprehensive relief.
In this video, Dr. Jane Wilson explains how the PMS Emotional Balance supplement works.
St. John’s Wort and Holy Basil are known for their mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties.
- St. John’s Wort: Helps elevate mood by influencing serotonin levels, which can reduce symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and mild depression during PMS.
- Holy Basil: Acts as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress and balance cortisol levels, which can reduce anxiety and stabilize mood.
Together, these ingredients support emotional balance and help alleviate both the emotional and physical symptoms of PMS.
We have a few video reviews from our clients who have shared their positive experiences. We’re truly happy to see how our product is making a difference and helping people manage their symptoms effectively.
Try this product to support emotional balance, reduce PMS symptoms, and improve overall well-being. You can check it out and make a purchase here.
