Busting Common Myths About PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome).

Embracing your sexual health and self-care routine each week is a necessary journey of self-discovery. It's important to understand the changes your body goes through, especially if you’re someone who suffers with any sort of PMS or Premenstrual Syndrome. PMS is like a monthly visitor that can make the whole experience of a period that little bit worst. However, there are a whole host of things you could go through because of PMS, a lot of which is not talked about enough. So, let us debunk some common myths about what PMS is and give you all the *detailed* descriptions of what is, actually, completely normal for you to experience due to raging female hormones. Hopefully, you will be able to navigate this natural part of your cycle with more confidence because of it.

Myth 1: PMS is Just About Mood Swings

Reality: PMS symptoms encompass both emotional and physical discomforts. It's definitely not just mood swings. While some people might experience premenstrual symptoms of low to moderate intensity, it doesn't necessarily mean they have PMS, from a medical perspective. True PMS involves a range of symptoms that affect your body and mind, and not everyone experiences them to the same degree.

Myth 2: All Women Have PMS

Reality: As we’ve basically just outlined, not all women and people with menstrual cycles experience PMS. Premenstrual Syndrome is a medical diagnosis involving multiple symptoms, both emotional and physical. It's not just feeling a bit off before your period. Reported rates of PMS vary widely, and sometimes the term is used loosely for any premenstrual discomfort.

The Unspoken, Unsurprising PMS Symptoms

Constipation and Diarrhoea

You might not have expected this one (you may be totally aware of it), but constipation and diarrhoea can be part of the premenstrual package. It all boils down to hormones, specifically, progesterone and prostaglandins. Progesterone, which spikes during the luteal phase, can slow down your bowels, leading to constipation and bloating. On the flip side, prostaglandins, responsible for uterine contractions and cramps, can speed things up, resulting in diarrhea when your period begins.

Rectal Pain

Ever experienced this often sudden pain that seems to have no specific cause? That's proctalgia fugax. It's surprisingly common during periods and can last a few seconds to minutes. Blame overactive prostaglandins for this one too – they're the culprits behind those mysterious rectal spasms. Yes, periods can quite literally be a pain in the ass.

Disrupted Sleep

If PMS is keeping you awake, you're not alone. Women dealing with PMS are twice as likely to have sleep issues before and during their period. Hormone fluctuations in the second half of your cycle can increase your body temperature, making it even harder to get that much-needed shut-eye.

Sensitivity to Smells

Have you noticed changes in your sense of smell throughout your cycle? You're not alone, but the science behind it is still a bit fuzzy. Some studies suggest that hormonal fluctuations might affect your sense of smell. While the research isn't conclusive, it's clear that your nose might be in tune with your cycle.

Sensitive or Dry Skin

Your skin, just like other organs, responds to hormonal shifts, especially oestrogen. Around your period, lower estrogen levels can leave your skin feeling drier, more sensitive, and easily irritated. This hormonal dance can even trigger skin conditions like dermatitis and psoriasis specifically during the premenstrual phase.

Gum Pain During Your Period

Surprisingly, your menstrual cycle can affect your oral health. Hormone surges before your period can lead to gum inflammation and increased sensitivity, making your gums more prone to irritation, plaque, and bleeding. It's like a catch-22 of dental troubles.

So, let’s Separate Fact from Fiction

Fact: PMS Symptoms Intensify with Age

As you age, PMS symptoms can worsen, peaking in your 30s and 40s. This makes sense, considering the hormonal fluctuations that occur during peri-menopause, the transition to menopause. This isn’t always the case, as some women as they get older do find the opposite, however, if you feel like PMS is hitting harder as you get older, you're not imagining it.

Myth: Avoid Exercise During PMS

Truth: Exercise, especially gentle activities like walking or yoga, can actually ease some PMS symptoms, including abdominal cramps and headaches. Plus, the endorphins released during exercise can boost your mood when you're feeling down, so less of a sad time all round.

Fact: Certain Vitamins and Minerals Help with PMS

Research shows that calcium and vitamin B6 can alleviate PMS symptoms such as cramps, irritability, bloating, anxiety, fatigue, cravings, and depression. However, the evidence for supplements like magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids is inconclusive, so always check with your doctor, and do your research before implementing vitamins into your routine.

Your journey to embracing your self-care involves understanding the nuances of your body, especially during your menstrual cycle. While PMS can bring some unexpected symptoms, knowing the facts can help you navigate this natural process with ease. Always be aware of them, and if something does not feel right, consulting a doctor should be your go-to. Remember, every body is unique, and your experience with PMS is part of what makes you wonderfully you.