10 Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) You Should Know

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a collection of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that some individuals experience in the days leading up to their menstrual period. These symptoms can vary widely in their intensity, and not everyone will experience all symptoms. As your family doctor, I, Dr. Natalia Hapych, have curated a list of 10 common PMS symptoms that you should be aware of.

1. Mood Swings

One of the most common symptoms of PMS is mood swings can manifest as sudden and unexplained changes in your mood. You might find yourself feeling happy one moment and irritated or depressed the next.

2. Bloating

In the days before your period, hormonal changes can cause your body to retain more water than usual, leading to a bloated feeling in your stomach. You might find that your clothes feel tighter, particularly around your waist.

3. Tender Breasts

Your breasts may feel sore or tender in the days leading up to your period due to hormonal fluctuations.

4. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy is a common symptom of PMS. Despite getting sufficient rest, you might feel sluggish and have difficulty concentrating.

5. Changes in Appetite or Food Cravings

You might experience an increased appetite or specific food cravings. It’s not uncommon to crave sweet or salty foods during this time.

6. Irritability

You might find that you’re more easily annoyed or frustrated in the days leading up to your period. Even minor annoyances might seem significantly more bothersome.

7. Headaches or Migraines

Some people find that they’re more prone to headaches or migraines before their period. If you have a history of migraines, they might be more severe during this time.

8. Sleep Disorders

You might have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep in the days before your period. Conversely, you might find that you want to sleep more than usual.

9. Acne Breakouts

Hormonal changes can trigger acne breakouts in the days leading up to your period. You might notice more spots or blemishes on your face during this time.

10. Anxiety or Depressive Symptoms

Some individuals might experience feelings of anxiety or depression before their period. These feelings can range from mild to severe and should not be overlooked.

It’s important to remember that every person is different, and PMS can present differently in everyone. If you find that your symptoms are severe or they’re affecting your quality of life, reach out to your healthcare provider. There are treatments available that can help to manage these symptoms.

Further Reading: How to Manage Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms