Emotional After Period? It's Normal And Here's Why

is it normal to be emotional after period

It is normal to experience emotional and physical symptoms after your period. This is known as post-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and it affects a smaller percentage of the menstruating population compared to premenstrual syndrome. Post-menstrual syndrome can cause anxiety, low mood, mood swings, anger, and physical pain, among other symptoms. These symptoms typically last for a few days but can persist for up to two weeks. While not yet recognised in mainstream medicine, post-menstrual syndrome is believed to be caused by hormonal fluctuations and can be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

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Post-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recognised condition

Post-menstrual syndrome is believed to be caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly a surge of hormones like estrogen and testosterone, which can result in emotional and physical symptoms. This hormonal surge is often associated with anovulatory cycles, where ovulation does not occur. Other factors, such as nutritional deficiencies, stress, and underlying medical conditions, may also contribute to post-menstrual syndrome.

The symptoms of post-menstrual syndrome can be categorised into physical and psychological. Psychological symptoms, which tend to be reported more frequently, include mood swings, anxiety, irritability, anger, and tearfulness. In severe cases, individuals may experience depression, sleep disturbances, concentration difficulties, and coordination issues. Physical symptoms can manifest as pain in various parts of the body, such as the stomach, joints, back, neck, or head. Vaginal discomfort, including dryness, itching, or burning, may also be present.

Post-menstrual syndrome typically lasts for a few days but can sometimes extend up to two weeks after the end of a period. To manage the condition, individuals can try stress management techniques, regular exercise, and dietary changes that support hormonal balance. Additionally, it is important to get adequate rest and maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables.

While post-menstrual syndrome is not yet recognised in mainstream medicine, it is important to seek medical attention if severe pain or prolonged mood disturbances occur. Keeping a diary of symptoms and tracking menstrual cycles can help individuals understand their bodies better and develop preventive measures.

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PMS symptoms can be emotional and physical

PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a medically recognised phenomenon that can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms in the week before a person's period begins. Emotional symptoms can include irritability and moodiness, while physical symptoms include breast tenderness. These symptoms usually disappear once menstruation begins.

However, some people experience symptoms after their period has ended, known as post-menstrual syndrome. This can include both physical and psychological symptoms. The psychological symptoms of post-menstrual syndrome are often more prominent and intense than the physical ones and can include anxiety, mood swings, anger, irritability, and tears. In severe cases, it can also lead to depression, trouble sleeping, and low concentration. Physical symptoms include pain in the stomach, joints, back, neck, or head, as well as vaginal discomfort and dryness.

Hormonal imbalances are believed to be the main cause of both PMS and post-menstrual syndrome. A surge of hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, can lead to these symptoms. Additionally, a high-sugar diet and processed foods can also contribute to post-menstrual syndrome by spiking blood sugar and increasing oxidative stress.

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PMS symptoms can last for up to two weeks

It's normal to experience symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in the week before a period. However, some people also experience post-menstrual syndrome, which is a cluster of PMS-like symptoms that appear after a period ends.

Post-menstrual syndrome can last from a few days to two weeks and is associated with more intense psychological symptoms than PMS. These symptoms can include anxiety, low mood, mood swings, anger, and feelings of depression.

The physical symptoms of post-menstrual syndrome can include vaginal itching or burning, abdominal pain, joint pain, back and neck pain, headaches, and digestive problems.

While post-menstrual syndrome is not yet recognised in mainstream medicine, it is believed to be caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly a surge of hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone.

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Hormonal fluctuations are a likely cause of PMS

Post-menstrual syndrome

Post-menstrual syndrome (sometimes abbreviated to PMS, like premenstrual syndrome) is a term used to describe symptoms that arise after a person's period ends. These symptoms can be physical, such as headaches, or emotional, such as anxiety. Post-menstrual syndrome is associated with more intense psychological symptoms than premenstrual syndrome.

Hormonal fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations are likely the cause of post-menstrual syndrome. The menstrual cycle is a time of intense hormonal fluctuation, which can cause increased vulnerability to depression. Specifically, the surge of hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, is thought to be the cause of post-menstrual syndrome. This is in contrast to premenstrual syndrome, where progesterone decreases.

Other causes

In addition to hormonal fluctuations, there are other factors that may contribute to post-menstrual syndrome. These include nutritional deficiencies, stress, and other underlying medical conditions. A high-sugar diet with lots of processed foods can also cause blood sugar levels to rise, putting the body under more oxidative stress and affecting hormone levels.

Managing symptoms

There are various strategies for managing post-menstrual syndrome, including medical treatments, natural remedies, and lifestyle modifications. Getting more sleep, sticking to a healthy diet, and engaging in some physical activity are recommended for mild PMS symptoms. For more severe symptoms, hormonal treatments and cognitive behavioural therapy may be beneficial.

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There are ways to manage PMS

It is normal to experience emotional turmoil during PMS, and there are ways to manage these symptoms.

Managing PMS

Medication

  • Over-the-counter pain medication can be used to treat symptoms that cause pain and discomfort.
  • Antidepressants can be used to control mood and relieve psychological symptoms.
  • Hormonal contraceptives that help prevent ovulation can also aid in controlling mood and relieving pain.
  • Calcium supplements can help ease mood changes related to severe PMS.
  • Magnesium supplements can help reduce sugar cravings and breast tenderness.
  • Primrose oil supplements can also help.
  • Vitamin E supplements can reduce premenstrual breast tenderness.
  • Natural progesterone cream can help control PMS symptoms.
  • Ibuprofen, naproxen, and other drugs specifically made for relieving premenstrual symptoms are also available.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Regular exercise can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving overall health.
  • Learning about and tracking your menstrual cycles can be a helpful way to reduce the stress associated with these symptoms.
  • Getting frequent rest or taking time off from work and other responsibilities can be a good way to reduce the intensity and severity of this experience.
  • Asking for support from a trusted loved one or friend can be helpful when going through these difficult times.
  • Managing your daily stress levels and ensuring you get enough sleep can help improve symptoms.
  • Self-care practices such as using essential oils and trying relaxing techniques like yoga or massage may also be beneficial.

Dietary Changes

  • Watching your salt and caffeine intake and eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains may be beneficial.
  • Eating small meals throughout the day rather than large meals may also help ease PMS symptoms.
  • A low-fat vegetarian diet, or reducing your intake of sugar, dairy, red meat, alcohol, and caffeine can help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Increasing your consumption of complex carbohydrates, leafy green vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is recommended.
  • Iron-rich foods such as red meat, shellfish, and legumes can help boost iron levels and relieve symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and anxiety.
  • B-complex and vitamin E supplements can help with fatigue and bloating.
  • Magnesium-rich foods such as dark chocolate, nuts, seeds, and avocados can help with mood symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Post-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a term used to describe symptoms that arise after a person's period ends. These can be both physical and emotional.

The symptoms of PMS include physical symptoms like headaches, abdominal pain, joint pain, back and neck pain, and vaginal discomfort. Emotional symptoms include anxiety, low mood, mood swings, anger, and tearfulness.

Post-menstrual syndrome is caused by hormonal fluctuations after menstruation. It can also be caused by circumstantial factors such as nutritional deficiencies, stress, and other underlying medical conditions.

Post-menstrual syndrome typically lasts for a few days, but can last for up to two weeks after the end of a period.

There are several ways to manage PMS, including getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and making dietary changes such as reducing salt and caffeine intake and increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains.

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  • Seti
  • Seti
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