MONTHLY MONSTER?

According to research, 80% of women are affected by premenstrual syndrome, with an incredible 67% needing to take time off work with the condition. When you consider that nearly all women between the ages of 12 and 51 will have a period every 28 days, that’s a whole lot of time with stomach cramps, headaches, sore breasts, joint pain and fluid retention. Not to mention bloating, mood swings, depressive feelings, insomnia, bad skin, and cravings.

Additionally, a condition known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is recognised as affecting 3% to 5% of menstruating women, distinguishing itself from PMS by the extreme nature of the symptoms that are exactly the same only more severe and often last for a longer time.

Understanding PMS can help women to accept it as part of their lives and look for solutions. A good start is to recognise those things that contribute to your premenstrual symptoms. Although these may vary from one woman to another, and some cannot be helped, it is commonly accepted that high caffeine intake, high levels of stress, low levels of certain vitamins (especially magnesium, manganese and vitamin E) and smoking can all worsen PMS symptoms.

Other factors that can lead to PMS include increasing age, a history of depression, allergies, and a family history of PMS. Although none of these can be changed it is worthwhile understanding the part they play in your PMS when considering how best to combat it.

The starting place for treating PMS symptoms is, as with so many other conditions, your diet. A diet high in fresh vegetables and fruit and low in dairy is recommended with caffeine eliminated and junk food, high levels of sugar and salt and refined or processed foods kept to a minimum. Consider adding vitamin and mineral supplements to your daily routine with magnesium, evening primrose oil, Vitamins B6 and E and St John’s Wort but check with your doctor before doing this.

Aromatherapy is thought to assist PMS sufferers greatly with rose and geranium essential oils a must and a drop of women’s bush flower essence on the tongue also recommended. Alternative therapists also suggest drinking a tea of raspberry leaf and lady’s mantle to combat painful cramping. In fact, spending time on oneself is an excellent relief for low, depressed moods, irritability and stress. Accept that you need to indulge yourself by pampering and resting for the good of your health and sanity (as well as that of those around you) by enjoying long, hot baths, taking naps or just reading a book alone.

If you think you may be suffering from PMDD keep a diary of your symptoms and how long they last to help in diagnosing the condition. Your GP may prescribe the contraceptive pill or suggest an antidepressive be taken for part of your cycle. Improvements have also been seen in women prescribed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (or CBT).