Many women experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms in the days or weeks leading up to their period, collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can affect different women in different ways.
Here are some of the most common signs that your period is coming:
Physical symptoms:
Bloating: This is caused by a buildup of fluid in the abdomen and can make your stomach feel full, puffy, and uncomfortable.
Breast tenderness or pain: Your breasts may feel sore, swollen, or lumpy before your period. This is due to hormonal changes that cause the breast tissue to swell.
Cramps or pain in the lower abdomen: This is caused by contractions of the uterus as it prepares to shed its lining. Cramps can range from mild to severe and can start a few days before your period or the day it begins.
Fatigue: You may feel tired, sluggish, or exhausted before your period. This is due to a drop in progesterone levels, which can make you feel sleepy.
Headaches: Some women experience headaches before their period. This is also due to hormonal changes.
Acne breakouts: You may notice more breakouts or pimples before your period. This is due to an increase in oil production, which can clog pores.
Emotional symptoms:
Mood swings: You may experience mood swings, feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed before your period. This is due to hormonal changes that can affect your brain chemistry.
Difficulty concentrating: You may find it difficult to focus or concentrate before your period. This is due to changes in brain activity that can affect your cognitive function.
Increased appetite: You may feel more hungry or have cravings for certain foods before your period. This is due to hormonal changes that can increase your appetite.
Social withdrawal: You may feel like withdrawing from social activities before your period. This is due to mood swings, fatigue, and other PMS symptoms.
Other symptoms:
Changes in vaginal discharge: You may notice changes in your vaginal discharge before your period, such as an increase in the amount of discharge or a change in the color or consistency.
Spotting: You may experience light bleeding or spotting a few days before your period. This is due to the shedding of the uterine lining.
It is important to note that not all women experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from month to month. If you are concerned about your PMS symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can help you rule out any underlying medical conditions and recommend ways to manage your symptoms.