What does pms mean. Symptoms and signs of PMS. Sedatives for PMS

The menstrual cycle has a complex hormonal regulation, its phases alternate one after another, and in each of them in the woman's body certain sex hormones prevail. In some women, the second phase of the cycle is accompanied by the appearance of signs of PMS.

The abbreviation PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome and means a complex set of symptoms that occur a few days before the expected menstruation.

It manifests itself as metabolic, endocrine and vegetative disorders. nervous system... There are also other names of pathology: "premenstrual tension syndrome" and "premenstrual illness".

PMS symptoms

Appear 2-10 days before the onset of menstruation. They can be observed with both ovulatory and anovulatory cycle... Symptoms disappear with the onset of bleeding, less often after it ends.

There are more than 150 signs that can accompany. The main ones are:

1. 1 Digestive system changes: nausea, vomiting, bloating and abdominal discomfort, stool disturbances (constipation or diarrhea), bulimia, change in taste, cravings for alcohol or sweets.
2. 2 Pain of various localization: in the lower back, lower abdomen and pelvic region, head, in the region of the heart.
3. 3 Engorgement of the mammary glands, edema of varying severity on the legs, arms, face, decreased urine output and fluid retention.
4. 4 Neuropsychiatric disorders: mood swings, tearfulness, aggression, depressed mood, unmotivated fear, withdrawal, depression, suicidal thoughts.
5. 5 Skin manifestations: increased fat content, sweating, acne, hyperpigmentation.
6. 6 From the musculoskeletal system: joint pain, muscle weakness, lumbodynia, sciatica.
7. 7 Other manifestations: tachycardia, pruritus, dizziness, thirst.

Such symptoms disturb from 5 to 40% of women, and 10% of them note that PMS disrupts the normal rhythm of life and relationships with others.

Some features of premenstrual syndrome have been noticed. It is more pronounced in young women, although it occurs after 40-50 years.

In girls, depression of mood, tearfulness is more often observed, in women after 40 years - aggression. Premenstrual symptoms are more typical for women in large cities who are busy mental labor and those who are underweight.

2. Clinical forms

Scientists have tried to bring the variety of manifestations into a single classification of PMS forms. Currently, the classification proposed by V.P. Smetnik is often used. She divides all the manifestations of PMS into 4 forms: neuropsychic, edematous, cephalgic and crisis.

2.1. Neuropsychic

In this form, symptoms of dysfunction of the nervous system prevail - mood swings, aggression, lability, weakness and fatigue. Auditory hallucinations, sexual impairments, cognitive impairments (memory, attention) may occur.

2.2. Edematous

A woman develops edema of varying severity on the legs and arms. Swelling in your fingers makes it difficult to remove your wedding ring. The mammary glands become coarse, become painful or sensitive, the volume of the abdomen increases, and the digestion process changes.

Some patients report weight gain due to fluid retention (up to 700 ml / day).

Excessive sweating and increased sensitivity to odors are common. Many women with such symptoms turn to therapists, do not analyze the frequency of complaints.

2.3. Cephalgic

Women with this form of PMS are dominated by headache, dizziness, hypersensitivity to sounds and smells, there may be nausea, vomiting. The headache is often throbbing and appears in a specific part of the skull, but is not accompanied by an increase in blood pressure.

Some women notice their heart palpitations, increased sweating. Edema, engorgement of the mammary glands may be observed, while the diuresis is positive (the amount of urine excreted is greater than the fluid drunk).

2.4. Crisis

It is characterized by sympatho-adrenal crises. Rises sharply blood pressure, pressing chest pain, palpitations appear. Sometimes the patient notes a cold snap of the extremities, the appearance of a fear of death.

There is no change on the ECG. Crises occur in the evening or at night, as well as after stress or overwork. After an attack, the woman urinates abundantly.

This form of PMS is the result of refusal to treat edematous, cephalgic or neuropsychic forms.

2.5. Atypical forms

Some women have symptoms that do not fit into the generally accepted classification. Some researchers point to such manifestations of PMS:

1. 1 Hyperthermia with a regular increase in temperature in the luteal phase to subfebrile numbers. There are no signs of inflammation in blood tests, and body temperature returns to normal with the onset of menstruation.
2. 2 Menstrual migraine. It manifests itself as a migraine headache on the days of menstruation.
3. 3 With cyclic allergic reactions (more often in the form of urticaria, less often - Quincke's edema).
4. 4 Ophthalmoplegic form - unilateral drooping of the eyelid into the luteal phase.
5. 5 Hypersomnic - the appearance of lethargic sleep in the second phase of the cycle.
6. 6 Cyclic bronchial asthma.
7. 7 Cyclic gingivitis and stomatitis.

With PMS, these symptoms must be repeated every cycle for several months. To establish a connection with the cycle, you can independently keep a diary and note the time when unpleasant sensations appear. This will help organize the information and make it easier for the doctor to make a diagnosis.

3. Theories of origin

Why do some women change the phases of the cycle easily and painlessly, while for others it becomes a real challenge? Still unanimous opinion in this question no.

The following conditions contribute to the deterioration of well-being:

1. 1 Frequent stress, sedentary lifestyle.
2. 2 Menstrual irregularities and profuse, painful periods.
3. 3 Neuroinfection.
4. 4 Severe pregnancy and childbirth.
5. 5 Consequences of abortion.
6. 6 Gynecological diseases.
7. 7 Injuries and operations.
8. 8 Chronic diseases.
9. 9 Sexual dissatisfaction.
10. 10 Poor diet, the use of foods low in fiber, vitamins B and D, calcium.

One of the first to be put forward was the hormonal theory of PMS. Other theories have now been developed:

1. 1 Water intoxication.
2. 2 Allergic.
3. 3 Prolactinic.
4. 4 Prostaglandin.
5. 5 Psychosomatic.

The following facts are in favor of the hormonal theory of PMS:

1. 1 Signs of pathology first appear with the onset of puberty, for girls this condition is uncharacteristic.
2. 2 Unpleasant sensations before menstruation can be observed throughout the reproductive period and practically disappear with the onset of menopause.
3. 3 Symptoms persist in women who have had their uterus removed while preserving the ovaries.

The hormonal theory is related to the predominance of estrogen levels over progesterone (relative hyperestrogenism) and their undesirable effects.

The development of water intoxication is associated with a violation of water-salt metabolism in the body. Normally, fluid retention occurs in the luteal phase of the cycle, but with an imbalance, this indicator increases even more. The consequence of this is mastodynia - pain and engorgement of the mammary gland.

Headache has also been associated with overhydration and increased intracranial pressure. In some patients who are prescribed diuretics, the severity of pain decreases.

4. Diagnostics

In the diagnosis of PMS, confirmation of the cyclicality of symptoms is of primary importance. It is not necessary to use all available examination techniques. Preference is given to those that are suitable for a particular form of pathology.

List of basic diagnostic methods:

1. 1 Hormone tests will be useful for most women with PMS. Determine the level of estrogen (estriol), progesterone, prolactin in the second phase of the cycle.
2. 2 Assessment of thyroid hormone levels, cortisol, C-peptide, sex steroid binding globulin, and glucose tolerance test are of secondary importance.
3. 3 According to indications, ultrasound of the thyroid and mammary glands, ECG, EEG, CT, MRI are performed.
4. 4 In case of neurological symptoms, CT or MRI of the brain is necessary to exclude tumor formations. The interpretation of the results obtained is carried out in cooperation with neurologists.
5. 5 In neuropsychiatric form, electroencephalography is desirable, according to the results of which functional disorders in the diencephalic-lymbic structure of the brain are determined.

5. Methods of treatment

It is possible with the help of psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. It is important for women to pay attention to the mode of work and rest.

Observance of the daily regimen, bedtime (optimally no later than 22-23 hours) will help to get rid of unpleasant sensations. For those who have night shifts and shifts, it is better to transfer to day work.

It is important to alternate between work and rest during the day. Regular physical education, morning exercises are desirable, for some, a daily walk in the evening is enough.

Working with a psychologist is combined with keeping a special diary, which reflects all the symptoms that precede the onset of menstruation.

It is also helpful to draw up a basal temperature chart that will allow you to notice the onset, as well as determine how many days before the start of your period, the first signs of PMS appear.

Pregnancy can be one of the treatments for PMS. Some women, with a delay, notice the disappearance of discomfort.

5.1. Balanced diet

It is imperative to revise the diet. It is necessary to draw up a menu based on the principles of healthy lifestyle, with the restriction of simple carbohydrates, caffeine, salt, alcohol, trans fats.

Recommendations for limiting "harmful products" are more relevant for the second phase of the cycle. But on other days, do not abuse them. Additional enrichment of food with fiber, vitamins, minerals and microelements is necessary. In most cases, it is recommended to take special multivitamin complexes.

Several studies have shown that taking food additives containing vitamin D and calcium, helps to reduce the severity of migraines, eliminates mood swings and other symptoms. The effectiveness of additional intake of magnesium and B vitamins (especially B1, B2 and B6) is being studied. The duration of their use should not be less than 3-4 months.

The calorie content of the diet is maintained at an average of 1200-1500 kcal, a more accurate calculation is performed based on age, body weight and height.

5.2. Drugs

Drug treatment involves the appointment of hormonal agents. The drugs of the following groups can be used:

1. 1 (for example, Angelique, Jess plus, Yarina plus, Dimia, Janine, Chloe, Diane-35, Logest, etc.). Their effectiveness has been proven in studies; the selection of the drug is carried out only by the attending physician. He will also tell you how many pills to take and what to do if side effects occur.
2. 2 Dopamine receptor agonists (Bromcriptine, Dostinex).
3. 3 Agonists of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Buserelin, Dipherelin) are used to treat severe forms. They can cause depression and insomnia, therefore they are not recommended for long-term use.
4. 4 Gestagens (Duphaston, Mirena). This group is still sometimes prescribed in medical practice, although the data on their effectiveness in PMS are contradictory. The theory of progesterone deficiency in the second phase of the cycle is already considered outdated abroad, since the influence of prolactin and prostaglandins has been proven.

To improve metabolism and the functional state of the central nervous system, Phezam, Lucetam, Vinpocetine, Magne B6 are used. For dysphoria, a psychotherapist may prescribe mild sedatives, antidepressants.

Normalize blood rheology, improve tissue blood supply Pentoxifylline, Troxerutin, Nicergoline. Diuretics are prescribed for severe edema.

Herbs with a sedative effect are used as auxiliary agents: valerian extract, motherwort tincture.

Folk remedies for severe PMS may be ineffective. Physiotherapy methods have a good effect.

Any attempts to cope with PMS must be combined with the right attitude, a change in the perception of the disease and the world around us. For men, the state in which a woman is can be incomprehensible. It is important that the spouse or sexual partner understands that the reasons for the changed behavior are hormonal fluctuations, and not a whim or a whim.

Many scientists and medical specialists have been studying the characteristics of the female body for several centuries. And only very recently it was finally possible to finally find out when PMS begins in females, and what are its true manifestations. Premenstrual syndrome is not fully understood, but it is already known that when it appears, women do not feel well: fatigue, malaise, and excessive aggression or tearfulness can also be observed.

There is no exact time frame for how old PMS occurs. Premenstrual syndrome is quite common and occurs in 75% of women. This is a condition in which various pseudosymptoms appear, which are characteristic of the PMS.

It is characterized by certain psychological and physiological signs... For every woman or girl, this condition manifests itself in different ways and is expressed in varying degrees of intensity.

Some women do not have premenstrual syndrome at all, while others show it constantly. Age plays an important role here, because PMS occurs only in women who have reached puberty with a formed menstrual cycle. This condition is observed only once a month and is accompanied by characteristic symptoms that are individual for each woman.

How many days before menstruation does PMS appear?

As noted earlier, in all women, the syndrome is expressed in different ways, therefore, how many days before menstruation it manifests itself and how long it lasts - all this is purely individual. As a rule, the first symptoms can be observed in a woman 2-10 days before the onset of menstruation. Depending on the individual characteristics of the organism, PMS symptoms can be expressed to a greater or lesser extent.

The appearance of PMS is explained by the fact that at a certain point in the menstrual cycle, the level of hormones in the body changes. This affects psychoemotional and physiological processes, which causes changes in the behavior and well-being of a woman.

Before the onset of menstruation, in a few days, hormone restructuring begins, which accordingly causes changes in the functioning of the body as a whole. This condition can often last for two weeks, after which the hormonal background returns to normal and the woman can feel normal again.

But this is not the case for everyone - each organism is individual, therefore, often the manifestations of PMS in women may differ. Among the external and internal factors that affect the severity of symptoms, of great importance are:

• the presence of any diseases;
• quality of food;
• Lifestyle;
• ecology.

It may happen that menstruation began earlier, and as a result of this, PMS will also appear a few days earlier than the expected date. To identify the exact period of onset of premenstrual syndrome, you need to know your own cycle, especially for those girls who have their periods regularly at the same interval. In the first year after the onset of menstruation, adolescents may have a period for the duration of their periods, but, as a rule, PMS is not observed during this period.

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

PMS can begin for many reasons, but, as a rule, the onset of the syndrome is due to some internal factors:

• disturbances in the body of water-salt balance;
• allergic reactions;
• psychological reasons;
• physiological factors.

The main reason for the appearance of PMS is a change in the level of hormones, when their number increases in the second phase of the cycle. For a woman, the balance of hormonal levels is very important, since any deviations from the norm entail not only changes in the psycho-emotional plan, but also contribute to the exacerbation of certain diseases, as a result of which health may worsen and general malaise and weakness may appear.

The female hormones that ensure the normal and stable functioning of the whole body are presented below.

1. Estrogen - is responsible for the physical and mental characteristics of the body, stabilizes muscle tone.
2. Progesterone is a steroid hormone that is necessary to prepare the body for pregnancy, but if its level rises in phase 2 of the cycle, a woman may experience a depression.
3. Androgens - increase physical and mental performance.

The onset of the menstrual cycle can contribute to the onset of PMS, which is due to several reasons.

1. A decrease in the hormone serotonin - becomes the main reason for mood changes, as a result of which tearfulness and sadness appear.
2. Lack of vitamin B6 - causes fatigue, mood changes.
3. Lack of magnesium - contributes to dizziness.

PMS is often transmitted genetically, which is the main reason for its occurrence in women.

PMS symptoms

PMS in females has a lot of manifestations. In some, they may not be particularly pronounced, in others, they may be more intense. Symptoms can last one day or last up to 10 days. Basically, they are divided into psychological and physiological manifestations.

Psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome:

• depression;
• depressed state;
• stress, nervousness;
• unexplained aggression;
• irritability;
• frequent mood swings.

Psychological symptoms are quite pronounced and are often found in women in the second phase of the cycle. Basically, the manifestations depend on the function of the nervous system and the work of hormones.

Physiological symptoms:

• feeling of nausea and vomiting;
• instability of blood pressure;
• aching or stabbing;
• swelling;
• swelling of the breast;
• quite rarely, but an increase in temperature is possible;
• weight gain.

Physiological manifestations during premenstrual syndrome depend on hormonal levels, lifestyle and environment.

How to distinguish pregnancy from PMS

Many women are unable to distinguish between the signs of PMS and pregnancy. To know for sure, you need to rely on the manifestations accompanying premenstrual syndrome or pregnancy.

Some symptoms are similar to each other, but they differ in duration and degree of manifestation.

1. Pretty quick fatigue after light physical exertion.
2. The enlargement of the mammary glands, their soreness when touched - during PMS, this manifestation is not long-term, but during pregnancy it continues until delivery.
3. Feeling of nausea, vomiting - PMS is rarely expressed by these symptoms, while pregnancy is characterized by such manifestations throughout the first trimester.
4. Irritability, frequent mood swings.
5. Pain in the lumbar region.

During pregnancy, the attitude towards nutrition changes, often women may want to try a specific food. With menstruation, this does not happen, only craving for sweet or salty is possible.

How to relieve premenstrual syndrome

This condition in females can begin several days before menstruation. Often there is a significant decrease in the activity of the body and its performance. Any physical activity causes rapid fatigue, drowsiness and malaise.

In this case, you must visit a doctor who must prescribe treatment. It is carried out after a medical examination, taking into account the patient's complaints and the severity of PMS symptoms.

Medication for PMS

To suppress symptoms and treat PMS, prescribe medications, which are able to stabilize well-being and weaken the effect of the syndrome on the body. Medicines are prescribed by a gynecologist and taken under his supervision.

1. Psychotropic drugs - with their help, the nervous system is restored, and the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as irritability, nervousness, and others, are weakened.
2. Hormonal drugs - recommended for hormone deficiency in the body.
3. Antidepressants - help to improve overall well-being, normalize sleep, reduce anxiety, frustration, panic, and eliminate depression.
4. Non-steroidal drugs - used for minor manifestations of PMS, they help to eliminate headaches and pain in the abdomen.
5. Drugs that improve blood circulation.

Medicines are selected according to the characteristics of the female body, the symptoms and the degree of manifestation of signs of premenstrual syndrome are taken into account.

If you suddenly find yourself craving a sandwich with butter, or burst into tears with emotion at the sight of a small child, or you painfully wanted to buy a pair of earrings that you are unlikely to wear, stop for a while and ask yourself if your period will start soon. If soon, your unusual behavior may be due to premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual tension syndrome (PMS). This is a specific condition that precedes menstruation and is more or less characteristic of most women. When PMS hits, just try to calm down and control your actions. When your period starts, you will return to your normal state.

PMS is associated with regular fluctuations in the level of hormones in the blood.

Previously, premenstrual syndrome was considered as psychological illness until researchers proved that this condition is organic in nature, caused by changes in the level of hormones in the body.

• increase the production of aldosterone, which causes a lot of changes in the body,
• increase the level of monoamine oxidase (a substance released in the tissues of the brain and can cause depression),
• lower the level (of a substance released in the tissues of the brain and affecting the level of activity and mood).

In some women, PMS is calm, in others it is very violent, but the timing of symptoms is always predictable. This is what makes it possible to distinguish PMS from other diseases.

Changes in emotional and physical condition appear 7-10 days before menstruation, and disappear almost immediately after the onset of menstruation. These dates can be established by keeping a menstrual diary for several months, noting in it all the symptoms and the dates of the beginning and end of menstruation.

If symptoms persist throughout your menstrual cycle, PMS may not be the cause. In this case, you should see a psychiatrist.

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

The appearance of premenstrual tension syndrome in some women and its absence in others is associated, first of all, with fluctuations in the hormonal background during the menstrual cycle and the individual reactions of the whole organism to them. However, scientists have recently begun to investigate other possible reasons this condition (there is no definitive evidence yet):

• monthly cyclical fluctuations in the amount of certain substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain, which include endorphins that affect mood,
• Malnutrition: PMS symptoms such as mood swings, fluid retention, breast tenderness, fatigue are associated with B6 deficiency, while headaches, dizziness, heart palpitations and cravings for chocolate are caused by magnesium deficiency.
• hereditary factor. It has been proven that identical twins are much more likely to suffer from PMS together than fraternal twins. Perhaps there is a genetic predisposition to PMS.

Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

Physical symptoms:

Psychological symptoms:

• frequent mood swings,
• depression, blues, feelings of depression,
• constant tension and irritability,
• insomnia or prolonged sleep
• absent-mindedness and forgetfulness.

Some women may experience more severe symptoms:

• panic
• suicidal thoughts
• aggressiveness, tendency to violence.

What can you do

• do physical exercises... Research has shown that regular workouts reduce the onset of PMS symptoms, perhaps? this is due to the release of endorphins or other substances in the brain that relieve stress and improve mood.
• sleep 8-9 hours a day. Sleep deprivation exacerbates anxiety and other negative emotions and increases irritability. If you suffer from insomnia, find a way to deal with it. Deep breathing and others simple ways relaxation before bed is very effective in many cases. Take hot baths and drink a glass of warm milk before bed.
• Eat a diet low in fat and high in fiber. During PMS, try to consume foods such as coffee, cheese, and chocolate as little as possible. Their use is associated with the appearance of migraines and many other PMS symptoms, such as anxiety, frequent mood swings and palpitations.
• do not eat much, limit sweets, it is better to take some kind of fruit.
• Maintain a constant blood insulin level to do this, eat a little about 6 times a day, it is better than eating a large portion once. Try to eat right.
• Nutritionists recommend taking vitamin B6 (50-100 mg) and magnesium (250 mg) daily in the form of dietary supplements. In addition, doctors prescribe an additional intake of calcium, which, together with magnesium, eliminates the symptoms of PMS and protects against osteoporosis, and iron (to fight anemia).
• many women say that primrose oil (a substance rich in essential fatty acids) helps them. Check with your doctor about the dosage for you.
• stay away from crowds, don't go outside unnecessarily if the weather is bad, and consume as much as possible (antioxidant and immune system stimulant). Women with PMS are more likely to get sick. Scientists believe that this is a consequence of a weakening of the immune system before the onset of menstruation, which makes the body vulnerable to viral, bacterial and fungal infections.

What a doctor can do

Since the causes of the disease are not fully understood, treatment for PMS focuses on alleviating its symptoms:

• for anxiety, insomnia, and other psychological symptoms, your doctor may prescribe tranquilizers or sedatives. However, long-term use of these drugs is undesirable due to the fact that they are addictive. Newer antidepressants have been shown to be effective for PMS, but they must be taken under medical supervision.
• for migraines associated with PMS, the doctor may prescribe special therapy aimed at preventing headache attacks. For pain relief, most doctors prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as.
• with edema or other signs of fluid retention, diuretics are prescribed, which must be taken 5-7 days before the onset of menstruation.
• in some cases, the doctor may prescribe progesterones and other hormones for PMS.

PMS prevention

Any disorder in the body, the causes of which are not clear, is difficult to prevent. At the moment the best way control of a given situation is the ability to cope with it, not prevention.

A regular menstrual cycle indicates the timeliness and correctness of the female body processes. But this phenomenon is not observed in all girls. Some suffer from a lack of cell release, others - irregular periods, while others feel on themselves all the charms of PMS. At the same time, a delay in PMS is perceived by them as a sign of pregnancy. Let us consider how this corresponds to the truth.

Delayed PMS and its causes

Premenstrual syndrome is a complex of physical and psychological symptoms that appear 3-5-7 days before the start of a new cyclic process. Sometimes PMS may be delayed up to 5 days, this condition is not considered a pathology and most often returns to normal without consequences.

PMS forms

The following forms of PMS have been identified:

• neuropsychic, which is expressed in aggressiveness and irritability;
• edematous, when swelling and soreness of the chest occurs, swelling of the face, pain in the lower abdomen and lower back;
• crisis, accompanied by high pressure palpitations, pressing pain in the heart;
• cephalgic, characterized by severe throbbing headache at normal pressure, profuse sweating, especially at night;
• atypical, which consists of a combination of symptoms of different forms.

The reasons for the delay in PMS are different. The most common is called a hormonal imbalance between estrogen and progesterone. In addition, the reasons are:

• a sedentary or overly busy lifestyle;
• excess or underweight;
• stress, heavy life situations;
• postponed abortion or miscarriage, inability to become pregnant, or vice versa, frequent conceptions;
• rare or frequent intercourse;
• taking contraceptives;
• various diseases, infectious, endocrine;
• bad habits.

PMS and pregnancy - signs and differences

PMS symptoms with delay

PMS symptoms with a delay in menstruation can be mistaken for manifestations early pregnancy... Now let's look at them in comparison:

• There is a change in food addiction in both cases, but with PMS, preference is given to salty and sweet foods, and during pregnancy you want something atypical and sometimes even inedible, which the girl has never eaten before.
• Aversion to food is more typical for PMS, since toxicosis occurs most often at 5-6 weeks.
• Breast enlargement and soreness is observed in both cases, but with PMS this condition disappears in 1-2 days, and during pregnancy it lasts the entire period.
• Constant fatigue, rapid fatigue is typical of both conditions, but with PMS, it goes away immediately after the onset of menstruation.
• Pain in the lower abdomen is characteristic of PMS, since there is a detachment of the upper layer of the endometrium, which was preparing to receive the ovum. During pregnancy, it is caused by the introduction of the embryo into the wall of the uterus, because here it is short and lasts no more than 1-2 days.
• Mood swings are possible with both conditions. Without fertilization, they are more negative, manifested in the form of irritability, and in the presence of a developing baby, there is simply a change in mood with a lot of positive emotions.

Pregnancy symptoms

To figure out how to distinguish PMS from pregnancy to delay, the signs inherent only in conception will help:

• Frequent urination, which is caused by a change in metabolism in the body of the expectant mother. The kidneys begin to work more actively, since they also have to serve the little man developing in the uterus.
• Toxicosis with the presence of nausea, increased salivation, sometimes occurs on early dates.
• Small brownish discharge 7-10 days after ovulation, confirming the fact of attachment fetal egg to the endometrium.

As you can see, it is difficult to determine: PMS or pregnancy. The differences before the delay are quite insignificant. In this case, testing to determine the level of hCG in the urine will help. The use of ultrasensitive modern tests allows the study to be carried out on the 10th day after conception, that is, approximately 5 days before the expected date of the next menstruation, when the pregnancy hormone has a value of 10 mIU / ml. A positive result will confirm pregnancy, while a negative result will show that it is just premenstrual syndrome.

When treatment is required

Against the background of PMS, a delay in menstruation may not always indicate pregnancy. Often this condition can cause some diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, some inflammatory gynecological and infectious diseases, and many other factors. The true reason why PMS is delayed in a particular case will be found by a gynecologist after an appropriate examination. He will also prescribe treatment if necessary.

If there is a delay in PMS and the test is negative, it cannot be ruled out ectopic pregnancy... With her, there are all the signs of a successful conception, but the level of hCG is too low, since it is produced in full only during a normal pregnancy. Attention should also be paid to other sensations during this period: pulling pain in the lower abdomen, brown vaginal discharge, which will confirm suspicions and force you to immediately visit a antenatal clinic so as not to pose a threat to your life.

Treatment for premenstrual syndrome consists in eliminating the cause that caused it.

In case of an unsuccessful attempt, the doctor prescribes:

• hormonal treatment with progesterone in the second phase of the cycle;
• taking vitamins and minerals necessary for in this case;
• sedatives, herbal remedies (valerian, motherwort tincture, etc.);
• physiotherapy, massage, water treatments, swimming pool.

Delayed PMS 10 days requires testing. A negative answer can be if you accepted contraceptives... After canceling them, failures in the cycle are possible. The body gets used to hormones coming from outside, and it takes a certain time to restore its natural state.

Delay of PMS 2 weeks, also requires first to exclude pregnancy. Even if you are sure that conception could not occur, still do the test. You can wait a couple more weeks and repeat the study. The newly received negative response and the absence of menstruation require a visit to the doctor.

PMS (video)

The nervous state of a woman before menstruation became the object of ridicule on the part of men. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) "spoils" the life of both, and is often the cause of quarrels in a couple and quarrels in the family. Therefore, what is PMS in girls, men should also know.

Women who have experienced all the "charms" of PMS on themselves know for sure that this is not a series of whims, but a really difficult state. However, only a few of them are able to cope with the manifestations of hormonal changes in the body. Modern medicine makes it possible: compliance with certain rules and the use of safe drugs will help to survive the premenstrual period without shocks and depression.

PMS in women - transcript

What it is? PMS is a special condition of a woman a few days before menstrual bleeding, characterized by emotional instability, vegetative-vascular and metabolic abnormalities. The abbreviation "PMS" stands for premenstrual syndrome. To make it clear what premenstrual syndrome is, we will answer frequently asked questions:

• Premenstrual Syndrome: Are Men Right to Snear at a Woman's Condition?

The men are clearly wrong this time. Premenstrual syndrome is included in the WHO classification. This means that the international medical community recognizes this deviation.

• Does all women have PMS?

Every second woman faces premenstrual syndrome. Moreover, the incidence of PMS and the severity of its symptoms increases with age. So, before the age of 30, only 20% of women suffer from it, after 30 - every third, and after 40 years, PMS occurs in 55-75% of women.

• Why does premenstrual syndrome occur?

Doctors do not give a definite answer. Hormonal fluctuations before menstruation, as the cause of PMS, are not always justified. In some women, the changes in the levels of the hormones progesterone and estrogen are not so significant. The closest to the truth is the theory of a temporary change in neuroregulation.

• How many days before menstruation do PMS symptoms appear?

The woman's condition changes 2-10 days before the onset of menstrual bleeding. The duration of this period and the severity of its manifestations are individual. However, all painful sensations necessarily stop in the first days of menstruation.

• Do you have to endure premenstrual syndrome?

Not necessary at all. To alleviate the menstrual syndrome, several rules have been developed for the daily regimen and diet. Also, in the case of its pronounced manifestations, the gynecologist may prescribe some medications (they will be discussed below).

• Does PMS go away after childbirth?

In some women, premenstrual syndrome is initially absent and may appear after childbirth. Others, on the contrary, unpleasant symptoms disappear or decrease (especially breast swelling and soreness) after the baby is born.

Important! PMS and menstruation are always associated: painful symptoms disappear after the onset of bleeding.

Most often, premenstrual syndrome occurs in smokers (the likelihood of PMS doubles!), Women with a weight index over 30 (divided their kg by the height squared in meters). Also, the risk increases after abortion and complicated childbirth, after gynecological operations. A genetically determined reaction of the body to physiological changes before menstruation is not excluded. However, PMS is most often recorded in depressed (phlegmatic) and emotionally labile (choleric) women.

Typical PMS Symptoms

There are hardly any women with the same PMS pattern: there are about 150 signs of premenstrual syndrome. However, in such a variety of features, the main groups can be distinguished. PMS symptoms in women:

• Deviations from the nervous system and psyche

The mood of a woman can be summed up in one word - negative. She may cry for nothing or for no reason at all. Ready to "tear to shreds", the degree of aggression also little coincides with the insult inflicted. At best, a woman is depressed and irritable, which she cannot always cope with.

• Hormonal changes

Because of increased level progesterone in 1-2 weeks. before menstruation in a woman, the mammary glands are noticeably enlarged and coarse. Many women need a bra one size larger than usual during this period. Bursting pain in the chest can be so intense that normal walking is uncomfortable.

In some women, veins protrude on the skin of the mammary glands. At the same time, there may be swelling of the hands and face, and the swelling of the legs at the end of the day becomes more noticeable. An increase in temperature up to 37.0-37.2 ° C is often recorded. Often the abdomen grows in size due to the accumulation of gas and constipation.

• Vegetative disorders

During the period of PMS, a throbbing headache often occurs, radiating to the eye area. Attacks are similar to migraines, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting, but the pressure remains normal.

PMS after 40 years, when hormonal changes are aggravated by concomitant diseases, often provokes pressure rises in the evenings (hypertensive crisis), tachycardia (heart palpitations), shortness of breath and pain in the heart.

Premenstrual syndrome can occur with a predominance of certain symptoms (edematous, cephalgic, crisis), but most often the mixed form is diagnosed. Almost every woman with PMS has:

• constant thirst and increased sweating, acne;
• dizziness and staggering, especially in the morning, and fatigue;
• desire to eat salty or sweet, increased appetite;
• severity in the lower abdomen and spastic pains, irradiation to the lower back is most often caused by a prolonged inflammatory process in the genitals (thrush, chronic adnexitis, etc.);
• goosebumps and less often numbness of fingers and toes associated with deficiencies of vit. B6 and magnesium;
• rejection of pungent odors, even their own perfume.

A severe form of PMS is diagnosed in the presence of severe 5-12 symptoms.

Premenstrual syndrome can occur in the following scenarios:

• Compensation stage - signs of PMS are not very pronounced, disappear immediately with the onset of menstruation. The course is stable, the progression of symptoms over the years is not observed.
• Stage of subcompensation - the severity of symptoms increases over the years, as a result, the woman's ability to work is disrupted for some time.
• Decompensation stage - severe symptoms (hypertensive crises, fainting, etc.) disappear only after a few days after the end of menstrual bleeding. Women have panic attacks, often suicidal thoughts. During the period of PMS, women often show violence, especially towards their children (they are brutally beaten).

With severe PMS symptoms, the issuance of a sick leave is permissible. However, severe premenstrual syndrome can lead to job rejection. In European countries, upon divorce, if ex-wife pronounced PMS is observed, children can be left with their father.

Premenstrual syndrome or pregnancy

The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are very similar to those of pregnancy. The main question for women is how to distinguish: PMS or pregnancy? It is almost impossible if you do not take a pregnancy test or wait a while for your period. However, according to some signs, one can assume the onset of pregnancy:

• Only during pregnancy is there a perversion of taste. In addition to cravings for salty or sweet foods, as with PMS, a pregnant woman refuses her favorite foods and expresses an acute desire to consume chalk and earth. An addiction may arise, for example, for fat, which the woman previously could not tolerate.
• Pungent odors in a pregnant woman also cause a negative reaction. In addition, a pregnant woman may experience olfactory "hallucinations": a specific smell appears in the wrong place.
• The pain in the lower abdomen during the onset of pregnancy is less annoying, occurs periodically and is of a milder, pulling character. Low back pain occurs only with the threat of miscarriage or later in pregnancy.
• Mood swings can occur already in the first weeks of pregnancy, which coincides in time with the PMS period. However, a pregnant woman expresses positive emotions as violently as anger. The premenstrual period is characterized by a negative emotional reaction.
• Fatigue occurs closer to 1 month. pregnancy (about 2 weeks. delay of menstruation).
• PMS ends with the onset of menstruation. In this case, full-fledged uterine bleeding occurs. Sometimes during pregnancy, spotting also appears on the days when menstruation is due. The difference between bleeding during pregnancy and menstruation is a smearing character: only a few drops of blood are released, and the discharge is pink or brownish.
• Frequent urination is often observed only during pregnancy from the first weeks. This symptom is not typical for PMS.
• Nausea can be triggered by premenstrual syndrome and is observed throughout the day. During pregnancy, nausea and vomiting occur a little later, at 4-5 weeks. and indicate early toxicosis.

Important! The HCG test will help diagnose pregnancy. Some tests are highly sensitive and can detect pregnancy within 4 days. before the onset of the expected menstruation. However, the optimal time for the test is considered to be the 2nd day of the delay in menstruation and the next week.

It is quite possible to reduce and, at best, completely get rid of premenstrual syndrome. If symptoms are mild, the following guidelines can help manage PMS without drug therapy:

• Adequate sleep for at least 8 hours. Walking and breathing exercises will help improve sleep.
• Physical activity - stimulates the synthesis of endorphins, which improve mood and calm the nervous system. During the premenstrual period, dancing, yoga and other relaxing practices (massage, bathing) are especially beneficial.
• Correction of nutrition - rejection of sweet and fatty foods, saturation of the diet with fruits and vegetables. It has an irritating effect on the nervous system of coffee, alcohol, energy drinks and chocolate. These foods should be avoided during the PMS period.
• Regular sex is a source of oxytocin (the hormone of happiness). In addition, the uterus relaxes, spastic pains disappear. You should not drown out the increased sexual desire: nature itself suggests what the body needs.
• Hold on to your emotions. Best tactics for premenstrual periods - I'll think about that later. Of course, you should not ignore the serious negativity that coincided with the PMS. But knowing that it is easy to "go too far" and say too much, it is better to postpone a serious conversation for later.
• You should not go shopping during the premenstrual period. There is a high probability of a useless waste of money, which in the future can develop into a family conflict.

In severe cases, a woman is prescribed drug therapy:

• PMS pain, what to do? - let's say No-shpa's reception. However, you should not get carried away with this drug. Providing an antispasmodic effect, No-shpa in large doses can increase menstrual bleeding. NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen) give a good analgesic effect. It is worth remembering: Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Mig-400) is not recommended for women after 40 years due to a negative effect on the heart.
• Soreness in the chest and swelling are easily eliminated by taking diuretics (Veroshpiron 25 mg, Furosemide 40 mg).
• Multivitamins - will compensate for the lack of magnesium, calcium and vit. AT 6. An excellent remedy for PMS is Magne-B6, the intake lasts 1 month. followed by a repeated course. Gives a good effect homeopathic remedy Mastodinon and saffron decoction.
• Removing the excitement of the nervous system - herbal preparations are most often used (Novo-Passit, Persen). Mixed tinctures of valerian and motherwort will help reduce stress and improve sleep, take 15-25 drops each. 2-3 times a day or only an hour before bedtime. In severe cases, the tranquilizer Afobazol is prescribed, which effectively eliminates the state of anxiety. At the same time, the drug does not have a negative effect on the psyche, women can drive a car while taking it. It is advisable to take antidepressants (Fluoxetine, Zoloft, Paxil) and neuroleptics (Nootropil, Sonapax, Aminalon). Tranquilizers, antidepressants and antipsychotics are used only as directed by a doctor!
• Hormonal agents - oral contraceptives (Midiana, Yarina) are used to stabilize the hormonal level and level the symptoms of PMS, the course is 3 months, with subsequent repetition. The progestational drug Drospirenone (Anabella, Angelik, Vidora) prevents engorgement of the glands and edema.

Premenstrual syndrome cannot be tolerated. The condition with PMS, especially in women with an unstable psyche and neurosis, can worsen over time, which ultimately will negatively affect the quality of life and ability to work.

It is also worth remembering that diseases of the genital area, endocrine disorders (including hypo- and hyperthyroidism) only aggravate the course of premenstrual syndrome. Their treatment, adherence to recommendations for changing lifestyle and, if necessary, medicines help to cope even with severe PMS.