The Menstrual Cycle

•  
  Overview
   
• Period
  pains
   
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS or PMT)
•  
  Treatment
   
• Contraception methods
   

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS or PMT)

PMS stands for Premenstrual Syndrome. Most women have at least some of the symptoms of PMS in the days leading up to the start of their period. These symptoms include bloating, tender breasts, a swollen stomach, back and lower abdominal pain, headaches, lack of concentration, mood swings, clumsiness and tiredness. A lot of women also crave things like chocolate and crisps at this time of the month.

Self-help

You may be able to ease the symptoms of PMS and period pains with the following self-help remedies:

• Hold a hot water bottle, or microwavable heat pack, to the abdomen and lower back
• Soak in a warm bath with aromatherapy oils to help to ease muscular tension
• Rub your abdomen or receive a back massage to soothe the pain
• Gentle exercise can help to ease pain by relaxing the uterine muscles and increasing the blood supply to the pelvis.
• Eat a healthy diet, high in fibre with plenty of vegetables and cut down on refined sugar
• To help prevent water retention that may make you feel bloated, eat less salt and drink more water.