The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) occur one or two weeks before menstruation, and I dread them.
In the week before my period, it feels like a storm is brewing inside me, with waves of pain, anxiety, and stress crashing together in a chaotic symphony. I sometimes wish I could get a break from periods for at least six months. As someone who misses her period occasionally because of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is apparently still non-negotiable. I may not feel actual blood flow, but I still experience the symptoms. It’s overwhelming, and unfortunately, I don’t see many women speak about it. So, I want to share how some of these symptoms affect my physical and mental well-being.
Symptom 1: Headache
Headaches set the tone for PMS. According to studies, drops or changes in estrogen levels can make headaches worse. So, when I start feeling that headache that makes my head spin and echo, I know my period is close. The headache kicks in around 3 p.m. and lasts until the following day. From then until I fall asleep, I have to push myself really hard to get anything done. My brain feels faint, and it’s hard to focus. And because I juggle academics with a full-time job; these are my worst moments. I’m less productive and extremely slow at grasping discussions, instructions, and lectures. Sadly, even paracetamol doesn’t make me feel better. Only a good night’s sleep helps. Unfortunately, a good night’s sleep is a luxury during this period — Pun intended.
Symptom 2: Tender breasts, back and muscle pain
The pain that befalls me because of PMS is hard to explain — but I will try. My breasts get swollen and a little bigger than their usual size. Personally, the size is not my problem—deep down, I love it. But the pain, it’s overwhelming. It feels like I’m lifting weights with my chest. My nipples become so sensitive, and wearing a bra feels like torture. Putting on a bra always feels like self-inflicted punishment.
I work from home, which also means spending a lot of time in front of my laptop. Naturally, I experience back and muscle pain from spending too much time in one position while working. However, the pain intensifies during this period, often making me uncomfortable and unhappy for the rest of the day.
Symptom 3: Gastrointestinal (Constipation & Nausea)
Mornings during that week are unlike any regular morning; it’s a battle between me and my toilet. According to studies, constipation is normal before periods because hormonal changes affect both the uterus and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; It can be uncomfortable. I spend over 30 minutes in the restroom, battling nausea at the same time. This often disrupts my morning routine, leaving me unsettled to get things done. The discomfort typically fades for a while, but I still feel nauseated occasionally, particularly after eating food I’m not craving. I also chew gum all day to avoid throwing up.
Symptom 4: Appetite changes and food cravings
The sort of hunger I feel during this period is unexplainable. I normally eat in small portions 3 times a day. But because of PMS, I find myself eating 5 times a day, with extreme sugar cravings. After eating a balanced diet, I supplement it with junk food, from burgers to chocolates to ice cream and lots of biscuits. The implications of these cravings on my account balance can be depressing, but if I don’t satisfy these cravings, my day becomes worse. I also feel weak, still hungry, even with a full stomach, and less motivated.
Symptom 5: Abdominal cramps
I also get cramps during the premenstrual week. For me, the cramps are no different from the menstrual cramps. The pain around my abdomen makes me check my underwear every four hours, hoping to see blood. PMS cramps persist for two to three days before my period finally begins. It’s often very uncomfortable. The only difference is that, unlike menstrual cramps I feel the whole day, this pain occurs for only a few intense hours. I always feel like staying in bed all day and eating junk food — I know I shouldn’t, but cravings get the best of me.
Symptom 6: Depression
I’m yet to understand why I feel depressed because of PMS. Although studies reveal that depression is normal during and after a period as hormone levels rise and fall during that time, it still doesn’t feel right. The month I had leading up to that week often determines how depressed I get. During this period, I wake up doubting myself and have intense mood swings. One moment, I’m dancing to pop music; another, I’m quiet and down. My mind also focuses solely on sad moments, affecting my relationship, work, and well-being.
These symptoms disappear the moment my period ends, but the thought of experiencing the same thing the next month saddens my heart. I hope I continue to have the strength to manage these symptoms.
