What are the main symptoms of premenstrual syndrome in women?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) typically presents with symptoms such as changes in appetite, weight gain, mood swings, breast tenderness, and pelvic pain. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Changes in Appetite

Fluctuations in blood glucose levels and hormonal changes before menstruation may affect the appetite regulation center, leading to cravings for sweet or salty foods, causing women to prefer sugary or salty foods.

2. Weight Gain

Hormonal fluctuations during the premenstrual phase may cause water and sodium retention, increasing fluid and salt levels in the body, resulting in mild weight gain in some women.

3. Mood Swings

Hormonal changes before menstruation may affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, reducing emotional regulation capacity and leading to negative emotions such as irritability, anxiety, and depression.

4. Breast Tenderness

Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels before menstruation may increase breast sensitivity and cause tissue congestion and edema, resulting in breast swelling and pain.

5. Pelvic Pain

Prostaglandin secretion increases during the premenstrual phase. As prostaglandins are pain-inducing substances, this may lead to pelvic pressure and lower back pain, which typically subsides after the onset of menstruation.

Women are advised to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, relax their minds through meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and avoid excessive intake of sugar and salt, which can help alleviate discomfort caused by premenstrual syndrome.