Why Is My PMS So Severe?

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why is my PMS so bad?” trust me, you’re not alone. Many women face intense physical and emotional symptoms before their periods, making everyday life feel like an uphill battle. From mood swings and exhaustion to irritability and painful cramps, PMS can really throw you off course.

In this blog, we’re going to dive into why PMS can feel so challenging, explore what might be making it worse, and share some effective strategies to help you manage those symptoms. Remember, while PMS is common, it doesn’t mean it should control your life.

What Is PMS?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) encompasses a range of emotional, physical, and psychological symptoms that typically occur in the two weeks leading up to your period. While some women experience mild PMS, others face more intense symptoms like:

- Intense mood swings
- Bloating or breast tenderness
- Extreme fatigue or difficulty sleeping
- Headaches or migraines
- Changes in appetite or cravings

For many, these symptoms can be disruptive enough to interfere with work, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

Why Is My PMS So Intense?

There are several reasons why your PMS may feel particularly severe, and a few factors can amplify those symptoms. Let’s break down the most common causes:

Hormonal Imbalance
Hormones fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle, and an imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone can lead to more intense symptoms. High oestrogen levels, often referred to as oestrogen dominance, may cause increased bloating, mood swings, and breast soreness.

Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Stress can worsen PMS symptoms by throwing your hormonal balance off-kilter. When you’re under pressure, your body produces more cortisol, which can exacerbate anxiety, headaches, and insomnia. Additionally, a poor diet, lack of sleep, and insufficient exercise can also contribute to severe PMS.

Underlying Health Conditions
Premenstrual symptoms might be linked to underlying conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid imbalances, or even Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). If your symptoms are particularly intense or debilitating, consulting a healthcare professional can help rule out any underlying issues.

How to Manage Severe PMS

If your PMS feels unmanageable, know that there are ways to ease your symptoms and regain control of your health. Here are some practical strategies:

Balance Your Hormones
Adopting a diet rich in whole foods can help regulate your hormones. Focus on incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-rich foods like fish and flaxseeds. Supplements like magnesium or vitamin B6 may also provide relief from PMS symptoms.

Manage Stress Effectively
Techniques like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help lower cortisol levels and reduce PMS severity. Even simple breathing exercises throughout the day can make a noticeable difference in your mood and overall wellbeing.

Track Your Symptoms
Keeping a journal to track your symptoms, emotions, and triggers can help you identify patterns and predict when your hormonal fluctuations might flare up. This awareness can empower you to implement coping strategies when you need them most.

Seek Professional Help
If your PMS symptoms disrupt your daily life, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor. They might recommend treatments like hormonal birth control or antidepressants to help manage your symptoms.

PMS vs. PMDD: Is It Something More?

If your PMS symptoms are extreme, there’s a chance you could be dealing with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a more intense form of PMS. PMDD includes symptoms like severe depression, anxiety, irritability, and significant mood swings. If this resonates with you, it’s crucial to track your symptoms for a couple of months and discuss your experiences with your GP. Getting a proper diagnosis can open the door to exploring treatment options tailored to your needs.

You're not alone in this, and there is support available to help you navigate the ups and downs of your cycle.

Photo by Rachel Kelli on Unsplash