What are Menstrual Complaints?
Menstrual complaints refer to a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to, and during, menstruation. These symptoms are collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and affect approximately 75% of women who menstruate. Menstrual complaints can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, and it is important to recognize and manage them effectively.
Common symptoms of Menstrual Complaints
The most common menstrual complaints include cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and mood changes. These symptoms are caused by changes in hormone levels, specifically a drop in estrogen and progesterone, and typically begin one to two weeks before the start of menstruation. In some cases, these symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
Treatment of Menstrual Complaints
Managing menstrual complaints involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment. Lifestyle changes include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction techniques such as yoga and meditation. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help relieve cramps and headaches. Hormonal birth control, such as the pill or the hormonal IUD, can regulate hormone levels and alleviate menstrual complaints for some women.
In some cases, menstrual complaints may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids. It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, persist for several cycles, or interfere with daily activities. A healthcare provider may recommend further testing or prescribe medication to manage symptoms.