Pre-Menstual Syndrome |
A CPO Mom Shares her Experiences
"There are things we can do to help alleviate, and even banish from our lives these difficult physical and physiological symptoms that come back like clock work every month. "
I have decided to write this article because I feel that many women could benefit from it, and even if just one woman does, that's already worth it for me. I'm talking about pre-menstrual syndrome. I know a few things on the subject because I have suffered since I was in my twenties. It took me a long time to realize what I was going through, and I wish I had known this back then, my life would have been so much easier. Not to mention my family's life. (ask my husband)
I have done some research on the subject lately, partly because I had to deal with it, and partly because I'm hoping to help someone. A friend of mine first told me about the vitamins, which turned out to be my biggest help for mood swings.
Ninety percent of women suffer some form of PMS. Out of these, 5 to 8 % suffer severe PMS.
To be diagnosed , you need to have had the symptoms starting around ovulation for at least 3 periods in a row, and then these symptoms go away once the flow starts. Physical symptoms include : headaches, sore breasts, stomach cramps, back pain, water retention, fatigue. Physiological symptoms include : mood swings , depression, irritability, anger, crying spells, etc. (Some women even have suicidal thoughts). Most women who suffer severe PMS are in their 30's, although they can start much earlier.
There are things we can do to help alleviate, and even banish from our lives these difficult physical and physiological symptoms that come back like clock work every month.
First of all, there are many of foods to avoid. Coffee, alcohol, chocolate, salt , sugar, and red meat are the culprits. I know you are thinking 'what the heck is left?' (lol) But this is a choice you must make, perhaps you could try it for couple months and see if you find any amelioration with your symptoms. Honest to goodness, avoiding these foods really help!
Then, there are vitamins that do wonders. Vitamins B6 and B12 have helped me with my mood swings. I saw a change immediately once I started to take them, but experts say it can take up to 3 months for it to take effect. Vitamin E help relieve the breast tenderness you may feel. And last but not least, EXERCISE!!! You need to do 20 minutes of physical activity, 3 times a week. More is good too. Just taking your dog for a walk is great.
I personally started with the vitamins. When I saw the results right away, I decided to try the other advice experts give. So far so good. I have been 6 months almost PMS free!! It truly does make a change for the better. You don't have to try all of these at once. Even starting a daily walk is good. Or perhaps you'll see a difference when you cut down on coffee. Personally, I love it that my husband doesn't tell me : "oh oh, I think your periods are approaching honey...."
