10 Physical Symptoms That Indicate Your Period is About to Start
Every woman experiences premenstrual symptoms (PMS) differently. The symptoms can vary from mild irritability and bloating to severe headaches, cramps, and fatigue. This article will explore ten physical symptoms that indicate your period is about to start.
1. Breast Tenderness
One of the most common symptoms of PMS is breast tenderness. Your breasts may feel sore, swollen, and painful to the touch. This is due to hormonal changes in your body, specifically an increase in progesterone. The tenderness usually lasts a few days, but for some women, it can persist throughout their cycle.
2. Bloating
Bloating is another symptom of PMS that many women experience. It’s often accompanied by abdominal cramping and discomfort. The bloating is caused by hormonal changes that affect your digestive system and lead to fluid retention.
3. Acne
Another sign that your period is about to start is an increase in acne. Hormonal changes can stimulate your oil glands, making your skin more prone to breakouts. If you notice an increase in pimples or blackheads, your period may be just around the corner.
4. Headaches
Many women also experience headaches or migraines during PMS. The hormonal fluctuations in your body can trigger these headaches, and they can be quite severe. They may be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
5. Fatigue
Feeling tired or fatigued is another common symptom of PMS. Women often feel more tired than usual and have difficulty concentrating. This is due to changes in their hormones and can last throughout their cycle.
6. Mood Swings
If you find yourself feeling more emotional or irritable than usual, your period may be on its way. Mood swings are a common symptom of PMS, and they can be caused by fluctuations in your hormones. You may feel weepy or anxious one moment and then angry or frustrated the next.
7. Constipation or Diarrhea
Your digestive system is also affected by hormonal changes, which can sometimes lead to constipation or diarrhea. If you notice changes in your bowel movements before your period, it’s likely due to PMS.
8. Cramps
Menstrual cramps are a well-known symptom of PMS. They usually occur in the lower abdomen and are caused by contractions of the uterus. The severity of the cramps can vary from woman to woman, with some experiencing only mild discomfort while others have to take time off work due to the pain.
9. Food Cravings
Many women also experience food cravings before their period. The cravings can be for sweet or salty foods or for specific types of food. The cause of these cravings is not entirely clear, but it’s likely due to hormonal changes.
10. Change in Libido
Finally, some women experience a change in their libido before their period. They may feel more or less interested in sex than usual. Hormonal changes are once again responsible for this symptom.
Conclusion
PMS is a natural part of the menstrual cycle, and every woman experiences it differently. These ten physical symptoms can indicate that your period is about to start, but they’re not always a guarantee. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that are affecting your daily life, you may want to talk to your doctor about possible treatments. Remember to be kind to yourself during this time and to take care of your body and mind.
