Menstrual Cycle Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

30.07.202324.06.2023 by alexxlab

What triggers anxiety before your period. How hormonal changes affect mood. Why do some people experience more severe premenstrual symptoms. What is the difference between PMS and PMDD.

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Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and the Menstrual Cycle

Anxiety is a common yet often overlooked symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While cramps and bloating are frequently discussed, the psychological impacts of the menstrual cycle can be equally distressing for many individuals. This article delves into the complex relationship between anxiety and menstruation, exploring the underlying causes, symptoms, and effective management strategies.

What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

PMS refers to a combination of physical and psychological symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This phase begins after ovulation and ends with the onset of menstruation, typically lasting about two weeks. During this time, many people experience mild to moderate mood changes, including increased anxiety.

Common Anxiety Symptoms During PMS

Excessive worrying
Nervousness
Tension
Irritability
Mood swings

The Hormonal Rollercoaster: Estrogen, Progesterone, and Mood

The exact mechanisms behind premenstrual anxiety are not fully understood, but researchers believe that fluctuating hormone levels play a significant role. During the luteal phase, estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall dramatically, which can affect neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for mood regulation.

How Do Hormones Affect Neurotransmitters?

Hormonal changes can impact the production and function of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These chemical messengers are crucial for maintaining emotional balance and regulating mood. When hormone levels fluctuate, it can lead to temporary imbalances in neurotransmitter activity, potentially triggering anxiety and other mood disturbances.

Individual Sensitivity to Hormonal Changes

Do all people who menstruate experience the same level of anxiety? The answer is no. Some individuals appear to be more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations than others, possibly due to genetic factors. This sensitivity may explain why some people experience more severe premenstrual symptoms, including anxiety, while others have milder experiences.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): When Anxiety Becomes Severe

For some individuals, premenstrual anxiety can be particularly intense and disruptive. In these cases, it may be a sign of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a more severe form of PMS that affects up to 5% of menstruating individuals.

Key Symptoms of PMDD

Intense irritability or anger
Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Severe anxiety or tension
Extreme mood swings
Difficulty concentrating
Fatigue or low energy
Changes in appetite or food cravings
Sleep disturbances
Physical symptoms (e.g., cramps, bloating, breast tenderness)

PMDD symptoms are typically severe enough to interfere with daily life and relationships. Individuals with a personal or family history of anxiety or depression may have an increased risk of developing PMDD.

Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME): When Existing Conditions Worsen

Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME) is a phenomenon closely related to PMDD. It occurs when a preexisting mental health condition, such as generalized anxiety disorder, intensifies during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Conditions That May Experience PME

Depression
Anxiety disorders
Migraines
Seizure disorders
Substance use disorders
Eating disorders
Schizophrenia

The key distinction between PMDD and PME is that individuals with PME experience symptoms throughout the month, with an exacerbation in the weeks leading up to menstruation.

Strategies for Managing Premenstrual Anxiety

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate premenstrual anxiety, there are several strategies that can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being during this challenging time of the month.

Lifestyle Modifications

Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Balanced diet: Eating nutritious foods and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can help stabilize mood.
Adequate sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can help manage anxiety symptoms.
Stress reduction techniques: Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that can be particularly effective for managing premenstrual anxiety. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety.

Medication Options

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medication to help manage severe premenstrual anxiety. Options may include:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Oral contraceptives
Anti-anxiety medications

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.

Tracking Symptoms: A Key to Understanding Your Cycle

Keeping a detailed record of your menstrual cycle and associated symptoms can be an invaluable tool in managing premenstrual anxiety. By tracking your experiences over several months, you can identify patterns and better predict when anxiety symptoms are likely to occur.

What to Include in Your Symptom Tracker

Dates of menstruation
Physical symptoms (e.g., cramps, bloating, breast tenderness)
Mood changes and anxiety levels
Sleep patterns
Diet and exercise habits
Stressful life events

This information can help you and your healthcare provider develop a more targeted approach to managing your premenstrual anxiety.

The Importance of Self-Care During the Luteal Phase

Practicing self-care is crucial for managing premenstrual anxiety and improving overall well-being. During the luteal phase, it’s especially important to prioritize activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Self-Care Strategies to Consider

Engage in activities you enjoy
Practice mindfulness or meditation
Take warm baths or use heating pads for physical comfort
Spend time in nature
Connect with supportive friends or family members
Allow yourself extra rest when needed

Remember that self-care looks different for everyone. Experiment with various techniques to find what works best for you.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some level of premenstrual anxiety is common, severe or debilitating symptoms may require professional intervention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

Anxiety symptoms significantly interfere with daily life or relationships
You experience suicidal thoughts or severe depression
Self-help strategies and lifestyle changes don’t provide sufficient relief
You suspect you may have PMDD or a preexisting mental health condition

A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Types of Professionals Who Can Help

Gynecologists
Psychiatrists
Psychologists or therapists
Primary care physicians

Don’t hesitate to seek support if you’re struggling with premenstrual anxiety. With proper management and care, it’s possible to significantly improve your quality of life during all phases of your menstrual cycle.

Breaking the Stigma: Talking About Premenstrual Anxiety

Despite the prevalence of premenstrual anxiety, there’s still a significant stigma surrounding menstrual health and mental well-being. Open conversations about these experiences are crucial for raising awareness, improving understanding, and ensuring that individuals receive the support and care they need.

Ways to Promote Open Dialogue

Share your experiences with trusted friends or family members
Participate in online forums or support groups
Advocate for better education about menstrual health in schools and workplaces
Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes about PMS and menstruation

By speaking openly about premenstrual anxiety, we can help create a more supportive and understanding environment for all individuals who experience these symptoms.

The Future of Premenstrual Anxiety Research

While our understanding of premenstrual anxiety has improved in recent years, there’s still much to learn about its underlying mechanisms and most effective treatments. Ongoing research in this field holds promise for developing more targeted interventions and improving the lives of those affected by premenstrual mood disturbances.

Current Areas of Research

Genetic factors influencing hormone sensitivity
The role of inflammation in premenstrual symptoms
Novel treatment approaches, including nutritional interventions
The impact of environmental factors on menstrual health

As research progresses, it’s likely that we’ll see more personalized approaches to managing premenstrual anxiety, taking into account individual genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Premenstrual anxiety is a complex and often challenging aspect of the menstrual cycle for many individuals. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and implementing effective management strategies, it’s possible to significantly improve quality of life during this time. Remember that everyone’s experience is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself as you explore different approaches, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With the right support and tools, you can navigate premenstrual anxiety and maintain emotional well-being throughout your menstrual cycle.

Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

Anxiety Before Period: Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

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Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. D., MSN — By Corinne O’Keefe Osborn on September 10, 2019

Period got you on edge? You’re not alone. Although you may hear less about it than cramps and bloating, anxiety is a hallmark symptom of PMS.

Anxiety can take different forms, but it often includes:

excessive worrying
nervousness
tension

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is defined as a combination of both physical and psychiatric symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of your cycle. The luteal phase begins after ovulation and ends when you get your period — typically lasting about 2 weeks.

During that time, many experience mild-to-moderate mood changes. If your symptoms are severe, they could indicate a more serious disorder, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Read on to learn more about why anxiety happens before your period and how to manage it.

Even in the 21st century, experts don’t have a great understanding of premenstrual symptoms and conditions.

But most believe that PMS symptoms, including anxiety, arrive in response to changing levels of estrogen and progesterone. Levels of these reproductive hormones rise and fall dramatically during the luteal phase of menstruation.

Basically, your body prepares for pregnancy by increasing hormone production after ovulation. But if an egg doesn’t implant, those hormone levels drop and you get your period.

This hormonal rollercoaster can affect neurotransmitters in your brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with mood regulation.

This may partly explain the psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings, that happen during PMS.

It’s unclear why PMS hits some people harder than others. But some people may be more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations than others, possibly due to genetics.

Severe premenstrual anxiety can sometimes be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or premenstrual exacerbation (PME).

PMDD

PMDD is a mood disorder that affects up to 5 percent of people who menstruate.

The symptoms are usually severe enough to interfere with your daily life and can include:

feelings of irritability or anger that often affect your relationships
feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair
feelings of tension or anxiety
feeling on edge or keyed up
mood swings or frequent crying
decreased interest in activities or relationships
trouble thinking or focusing
tiredness or low energy
food cravings or binge eating
trouble sleeping
feeling out of control
physical symptoms, such as cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and joint or muscle pain

PMDD is closely associated with preexisting mental health disorders. If you have a personal or family history of anxiety or depression, you may have an increased risk.

PME

PME is closely related to PMDD. It happens when a preexisting condition, such as generalized anxiety disorder, intensifies during the luteal phase of your cycle.

Other preexisting conditions that can flare up before your period include:

depression
anxiety disorders
migraine
seizures
substance use disorder
eating disorders
schizophrenia

The difference between PMDD and PME is that those with PME experience symptoms all month long, they just get worse in the weeks before their period.

The tips discussed above can help to manage active PMS symptoms and reduce your chances of experiencing them. But there’s not a whole lot else you can do about PMS.

However, you might be able to get more bang for your buck out of those tips by tracking your symptoms throughout your cycle using an app or diary. Add in data about your lifestyle changes so you can get a better idea of what’s most effective and what you can maybe skip.

For example, mark down days in which you get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise. See if your symptoms decrease overtime as your fitness level increases.

If your symptoms don’t improve after lifestyle changes or you think you may have PMDD or PME, it’s worth following up with your healthcare provider.

If you’ve been tracking your period and PMS symptoms, bring those along to the appointment if you can.

If you do have PME or PMDD, the first line of treatment for both conditions are antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs increase serotonin levels in your brain, which may help decrease depression and anxiety.

A little bit of anxiety in the week or two before your period is totally normal. But if your symptoms are having a negative impact on your life, there are things you can try for relief.

Start by making a few lifestyle changes. If those don’t seem to cut it, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider or gynecologist.

Read this article in Spanish.

Last medically reviewed on September 10, 2019

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Aganoff J, et al. (1994). Aerobic exercise, mood states and menstrual cycle symptoms.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8027958
Canning S, et al. (2008). Dietary supplements and herbal remedies for premenstrual syndrome (PMS): A systematic research review of the evidence for their efficacy.
crd.york.ac.uk/crdweb/ShowRecord.asp?LinkFrom=OAI&ID=12006007749#.VKLNyv8HDQA
Hofmeister S, et al. (2016). Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
aafp.org/afp/2016/0801/p236.html
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Anxiety disorders.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961
Nillni YI, et al. (2011). Anxiety sensitivity, the menstrual cycle, and panic disorder: a putative neuroendocrine and psychological interaction. DOI:
10.1016/j.cpr.2011.07.006
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). (2018).
womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd#7
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). (2015).
acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Premenstrual-Syndrome-PMS?IsMobileSet=false#what
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). (2018).
womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Sep 10, 2019

Written By

Corinne Osborn

Edited By

Elizabeth Donovan

Medically Reviewed By

Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN — By Corinne O’Keefe Osborn on September 10, 2019

Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

Anxiety Before Period: Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

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Plan
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  - Mood Foods
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Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. D., MSN — By Corinne O’Keefe Osborn on September 10, 2019

Period got you on edge? You’re not alone. Although you may hear less about it than cramps and bloating, anxiety is a hallmark symptom of PMS.

Anxiety can take different forms, but it often includes:

excessive worrying
nervousness
tension

During that time, many experience mild-to-moderate mood changes. If your symptoms are severe, they could indicate a more serious disorder, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Read on to learn more about why anxiety happens before your period and how to manage it.

Even in the 21st century, experts don’t have a great understanding of premenstrual symptoms and conditions.

Basically, your body prepares for pregnancy by increasing hormone production after ovulation. But if an egg doesn’t implant, those hormone levels drop and you get your period.

This hormonal rollercoaster can affect neurotransmitters in your brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with mood regulation.

This may partly explain the psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings, that happen during PMS.

It’s unclear why PMS hits some people harder than others. But some people may be more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations than others, possibly due to genetics.

Severe premenstrual anxiety can sometimes be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or premenstrual exacerbation (PME).

PMDD

PMDD is a mood disorder that affects up to 5 percent of people who menstruate.

The symptoms are usually severe enough to interfere with your daily life and can include:

feelings of irritability or anger that often affect your relationships
feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair
feelings of tension or anxiety
feeling on edge or keyed up
mood swings or frequent crying
decreased interest in activities or relationships
trouble thinking or focusing
tiredness or low energy
food cravings or binge eating
trouble sleeping
feeling out of control
physical symptoms, such as cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and joint or muscle pain

PMDD is closely associated with preexisting mental health disorders. If you have a personal or family history of anxiety or depression, you may have an increased risk.

PME

PME is closely related to PMDD. It happens when a preexisting condition, such as generalized anxiety disorder, intensifies during the luteal phase of your cycle.

Other preexisting conditions that can flare up before your period include:

depression
anxiety disorders
migraine
seizures
substance use disorder
eating disorders
schizophrenia

The difference between PMDD and PME is that those with PME experience symptoms all month long, they just get worse in the weeks before their period.

The tips discussed above can help to manage active PMS symptoms and reduce your chances of experiencing them. But there’s not a whole lot else you can do about PMS.

For example, mark down days in which you get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise. See if your symptoms decrease overtime as your fitness level increases.

If your symptoms don’t improve after lifestyle changes or you think you may have PMDD or PME, it’s worth following up with your healthcare provider.

If you’ve been tracking your period and PMS symptoms, bring those along to the appointment if you can.

A little bit of anxiety in the week or two before your period is totally normal. But if your symptoms are having a negative impact on your life, there are things you can try for relief.

Start by making a few lifestyle changes. If those don’t seem to cut it, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider or gynecologist.

Read this article in Spanish.

Last medically reviewed on September 10, 2019

How we reviewed this article:

Aganoff J, et al. (1994). Aerobic exercise, mood states and menstrual cycle symptoms.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8027958
Canning S, et al. (2008). Dietary supplements and herbal remedies for premenstrual syndrome (PMS): A systematic research review of the evidence for their efficacy.
crd.york.ac.uk/crdweb/ShowRecord.asp?LinkFrom=OAI&ID=12006007749#.VKLNyv8HDQA
Hofmeister S, et al. (2016). Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
aafp.org/afp/2016/0801/p236.html
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Anxiety disorders.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961
Nillni YI, et al. (2011). Anxiety sensitivity, the menstrual cycle, and panic disorder: a putative neuroendocrine and psychological interaction. DOI:
10.1016/j.cpr.2011.07.006
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). (2018).
womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd#7
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). (2015).
acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Premenstrual-Syndrome-PMS?IsMobileSet=false#what
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). (2018).
womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Sep 10, 2019

Written By

Corinne Osborn

Edited By

Elizabeth Donovan

Medically Reviewed By

Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.D., MSN — By Corinne O’Keefe Osborn on September 10, 2019

Anxiety and the menstrual cycle – WomanLog

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It is perfectly normal to experience stress and anxiety in difficult situations, but some of us experience anxiety so strongly and often that something needs to be done about it.

Episodic anxiety is a natural response to stressors such as unfamiliar situations or danger. However, it happens that the feeling of anxiety is so pronounced that it can impede the daily activities of a person, interfere with his communication and socialization with other people. In such cases, they speak of pathological anxiety, or an anxiety disorder. A person suffering from an anxiety disorder is characterized by increased irritability, he can easily succumb to excitement and even suffer from depression. Such people may also experience “panic attacks” that manifest as a sudden increase in heart rate, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and nausea.

Menstrual tracker and calendar

You can track your cycle with the WomanLog calendar. You can download the calendar from the links below:

You can follow your cycle with the WomanLog calendar.

The feeling of anxiety can also increase depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The fact is that the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone regulate not only the reproductive process, but also affect the health of the skin, liver and other organs, participate in the regulation of metabolism, and also affect the nervous system. This is why many women experience mood swings during their menstrual cycle, especially during the luteal phase, shortly before their period begins.

Is my anxiety caused by hormonal changes? How to treat anxiety associated with hormonal imbalance? Find out more in our main article here.

You can keep track of your cycle with the WomanLog calendar. You can download the calendar from the links below:

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

Explore it on AppGallery

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Cycling

Heavy periods and menorrhagia

Most women characterize menstruation as a far from pleasant experience, even though menstruation is a completely natural and more or less regular process. However, in the case of menorrhagia, it is even worse – the bleeding is very strong and often accompanied by painful spasms.

The cycle

The phases of the menstrual cycle are like the seasons: living in harmony with your body

The menstrual cycle is an incredibly important factor in a woman’s health and well-being throughout her reproductive years and beyond. Despite this, researchers have only recently begun to consider the female cycle when designing studies; and society is only now beginning to gradually shed the stigma associated with menstruation.

Cycle

Length of the menstrual cycle

Each woman has her own length of the menstrual cycle, and the length of the cycle can vary from month to month. Small fluctuations in cycle length are common and should not be a cause for concern. However, in some cases, changes in the regularity of the cycle can indicate health problems, the onset of pregnancy, or the onset of menopause.

FAQ

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Premenstrual syndrome – myths and reality

“I will be more jealous than a Barbary pigeon to its dove, louder than a parrot in the rain, more capricious than a monkey, more fidgety than a monkey; I will cry over a trifle, like Diana at the fountain, just when you are in the mood to have fun, and I will laugh like a hyena, just when you want to sleep . .. “ This is how Rosalind spoke about her changes after her marriage in Shakespeare’s play As You Like It. which will be discussed.

What is premenstrual syndrome

This is a multicomponent, complex, but often occurring diagnosis. Its complexity lies in the fact that it consists of many symptoms (complaints) that are also characteristic of some other diseases, and that is why the doctor must not make a mistake in making a diagnosis.

For the first time, as an independent disease, premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual tension) was described in 1931 by Robert Frank in an article published in the journal Neurology and Psychiatry. And even earlier, at the end of the 19th century, the Austrian and German psychiatrist Richard von Kraft-Ebing described this condition as follows: in their character and manner, as soon as their regulations appeared or approached. It’s like a storm: they become picky, irritable and grumpy, sometimes turning into real furies, which everyone fears and avoids. Not as poetic as Shakespeare’s, but very similar, isn’t it … And the most interesting thing is that both doctors were psychiatrists.

And indeed, in the complaints of patients with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), it is precisely the violation of the psycho-emotional state that prevails. According to various medical sources, the frequency of PMS is from 25 to 90%, and only 5-10% of the symptoms are pronounced.

Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

The definition of PMS is as follows: it is a complex pathological symptom complex of neuropsychic, vegetative-vascular and metabolic-endocrine disorders, which combines at least 3-4 pronounced symptoms that appear 2-10 days before menstruation and disappear immediately after its beginning or in the early days.

Neuropsychic symptoms include, for example: irritability, depression, tearfulness, aggressiveness.

Vegetative-vascular disorders are headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, pain in the heart area and changes in blood pressure, both upward and downward.
Metabolic and endocrine disorders are characterized by: engorgement and pain in the mammary glands, swelling, flatulence, thirst, shortness of breath, fever.

Premenstrual syndrome affects mainly women of childbearing age. Rarely, but it happens that the disease begins in adolescence. Some doctors, relying on numerous studies, note that the more severe this condition is, the more difficult the menopause is.

Accordingly, according to the severity of PMS, it has a mild or severe form. The severity can be determined, for example, using the Rudolf Musa questionnaire, compiled in 1969, where you can independently determine the severity of the disease, and then be sure to consult a doctor to decide on the correction of your condition.

Menstrual distress questionnaire (MDO)

Pain manifestations :
- muscle tension
- headache
- spasms and convulsions
- lumbago
- fatigue
- general pains
Violation of concentration :
- insomnia
- forgetfulness
- embarrassment
- lethargy
- difficulty concentrating
- distraction
- decreased coordination of movements
- injuries
Behavioral changes:
- decrease in activity during work or study
- drowsiness
- disability
- efficiency reduction
Vegetative reactions:
- dizziness, loss of consciousness
- cold sweat
- nausea, vomiting
- hot flashes
Fluid retention:
- weight gain
- skin manifestations
- mastalgia
- puffiness
Negative affectation:
- tearfulness
- feelings of loneliness
- anxiety
- alarm
- inability to relax
- irritability
- mood swings
- depression
- tension
Legal capacity :
- caring
- neatness
- excitation
- wellness
- energy
Control:
- sensation of suffocation
- chest pain
- lacrimation
- heartbeat
- numbness, paresthesia
- visual impairment

The degree of manifestation of the above symptoms is determined by a 6-point system for each symptom (47 symptoms in total):

1 point – no pathological manifestations;
2 points – barely noticeable manifestations;
3 points – obvious, weak;
4 points – obvious, medium intensity;
5 points — obvious, pronounced;
6 points – acute, disabling.

For an objective and dynamic study, the author suggests filling out a calendar of symptoms in the premenstrual, menstrual and intermenstrual periods.

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

What leads to such a serious condition, what is the cause of the disease? Medical scientists do not give a definite answer to this question. There are several reasons.

“Hormons are to blame” is probably the most studied and top theory. Because the menstrual cycle is regulated by sex hormones, and their imbalance leads to the failure of the menstrual cycle management system, and to compensate, the body begins to come up with all sorts of changes and replacements. Hormonal regulation is a very multi-stage process, hormones regulate not only the cycle itself, but also the work of other organs and systems during this period. Many diseases are exacerbated precisely at the time of menstruation, and if this process is disturbed even before the onset of the cycle, this can worsen the situation. Because hormonal regulation is directly related to the work of the brain, the most noticeable exacerbation of mental disorders.

Hormonal regulation, in turn, is supported, for example, by vitamins and trace elements. This is the basis for another theory of the occurrence of PMS.

Another theory is based on psychogenic causes of this syndrome . Those. a conflict situation in the family, at work … leads to the launch of disorders in the neuroendocrine system.

All these theories, one way or another, are interconnected. And on the basis of each of them, methods of treatment were proposed.

Methods for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome

One of the most common methods is the appointment of

hormonal contraceptives or phytohormones (for example, Mastodinon, Remens),
vitamin and trace element replenishment method (e.g. MgB6),
antidepressants, sedatives (e.g. herbal Gelarium),
methods of psychotherapy.

Menstrual Cycle Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and the Menstrual Cycle

What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

Common Anxiety Symptoms During PMS

The Hormonal Rollercoaster: Estrogen, Progesterone, and Mood

How Do Hormones Affect Neurotransmitters?

Individual Sensitivity to Hormonal Changes

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): When Anxiety Becomes Severe

Key Symptoms of PMDD

Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME): When Existing Conditions Worsen

Conditions That May Experience PME

Strategies for Managing Premenstrual Anxiety

Lifestyle Modifications

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Medication Options

Tracking Symptoms: A Key to Understanding Your Cycle

What to Include in Your Symptom Tracker

The Importance of Self-Care During the Luteal Phase

Self-Care Strategies to Consider

When to Seek Professional Help

Types of Professionals Who Can Help

Breaking the Stigma: Talking About Premenstrual Anxiety

Ways to Promote Open Dialogue

The Future of Premenstrual Anxiety Research

Current Areas of Research

Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

PMDD

PME

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Why It Happens and Tips for Relief

PMDD

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Anxiety and the menstrual cycle – WomanLog

Menstrual tracker and calendar

You can track your cycle with the WomanLog calendar. You can download the calendar from the links below:

You can follow your cycle with the WomanLog calendar.

Premenstrual syndrome – myths and reality

What is premenstrual syndrome

Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

Methods for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome

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