The premenstrual syndrome manifests in various ways, including mood swings, sore breasts, food cravings, exhaustion and irritability. It is estimated that up to three out of every four menstruating women have premenstrual syndrome.
Symptoms tend to repeat themselves in a regular sequence. Yet, the physical and emotional changes associated with premenstrual syndrome can range from barely perceptible to overwhelming. Here are some side effects of periods apart from cramps.
Migraines
According to a 2018 report published in The Journal of Headache and Pain. Menstrual migraines (also known as hormone headaches) affect roughly 20% of people during their periods. Shifting amounts of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone appear to be the cause.
Also read: 5 Hygiene Tips To Avoid Menstrual Infections
Craving For Sugar
According to nutritionist Pooja Makhija, craving sweets is relatively common and may be the first indicator of menstruation. Our bodies require more protein now, and our desires demand that we consume more of our favourite chocolates and desserts. Lower quantities of protein in our bodies are frequently linked to increased sugar desire. But be aware that this is not what your body requires right now. Thus, make sure you eat enough eggs, legumes, and meat.
Uneasiness
We may not recognise how we overdo simple things at work, such as overthinking or working after hours just to reach more than perfection; all these add stress to the body. Ms Makhija concludes stating to deal with the subtle indicators of periods one must emphasise on the importance of eating well and sleeping properly.
Bloating
Bloating during periods is a common symptom experienced by many women during their menstrual cycle. The natural hormonal fluctuations of women's bodies can lead to water retention or an increase in abdominal size and an uncomfortable feeling of fullness.
Also read: 7 Ways To Deal With Menstrual Fatigue
Bloating during periods can start two to three days before your period and usually goes away shortly after your period ends. Common causes of bloating during periods include increased levels of progesterone, which can cause your stomach muscles to relax, and increased levels of estrogen, which can cause your body to retain more water.
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is a typical complication of menstrual bleeding. According to a 2022 article in Pharmacy Today, your body creates more prostaglandins, substances that stimulate your uterine muscles to spasm, in the days leading up to your period.
Infections Caused By Yeast
According to the National Institutes of Health, 75% of women will develop a yeast infection during their lives. An overgrowth of the Candida fungus causes yeast infections. Some women suffer yeast infections before their menstrual cycle, while others get recurrent infections around the same time each month. This is known as cyclic vulvovaginitis.
Pain In Joints
In 2008, an article published in Reviews in Pain stated that women tend to feel joint pain when estrogen level drops. Also, an increase in prostaglandins before and during your period may play a role in causing discomfort in your muscles and joints, says a study published in 2020 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
