Signs and symptoms of PMS include weight gain, diarrhea, irritability, and cramping.
Most people who menstruate have about one period per month.
A menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, and a normal cycle can vary from 21 to 35 days.
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The one to two weeks before your period is theluteal phase.
During this phase, the uterus prepares for pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining.
The hormonal changes during the luteal phases are likely responsible for any PMS symptoms you experience.
Period Coming on Time: How to Tell
Everyone who menstruates experiences PMS symptoms differently.
The signs can range from mild to severe.
For most people, PMS symptoms tend to worsen in the late 30s and 40s asperimenopauseapproaches.
As theuterusprepares to shed its inner lining, it causes muscle contractions that feel like pelvic cramping.
You may notice bloating and gas as well.
You may experience constipation ordiarrhea, changes in your appetite, and food cravings.
Prostaglandins are responsible for the uterus’s contracting during your period.
They can also causeheadaches, backaches, andtender breasts.
Mood Changes
It is common to experience mood changes before your period.
These are resulting from falling levels ofestrogenandprogesterone.
Before your period, you may experience feelings of irritability,anxiety, ordepression.
It may also feel difficult to concentrate or to remember details.
Fatigue
It’s common to feel especially tired before your period.
In the week before your period, you may notice daytime sleepiness and trouble sleeping at night.
Hormonal changes cause these symptoms.
People with certain chronic health conditions may experience an increase in symptoms before their periods.
PMS can worsen the following chronic conditions:
Late Period: Can You Tell It Isnt Coming?
Late periods are common if you are experiencing the following:
People who arebreastfeedingmay experience late or absent periods.
Breastfeeding releases the hormone prolactin, which affects the bodys ability to ovulate and menstruate.
Some health conditions cause symptoms similar to PMS, which can include:
Some early signs ofpregnancyfeel like PMS.
Most people will need a combination of treatment/lifestyle changes to manage symptoms successfully.
How to Manage Symptoms Before a Period Starts
Period symptoms can feel very uncomfortable.
However, there are lifestyle changes and treatments available that can ease your discomfort and increase your energy.
There are treatments available to ease your pain or discomfort.
Call a provider if you notice your periods have become irregular or late.
This is referred to as premenstrual syndrome.
Fortunately, there are treatments available to ease PMS symptoms.
If you need help managing PMS symptoms, see a healthcare provider.
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