Physical Symptoms Before Menstruation

Aug 31, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yan Ying
Introduction
1. Breast tenderness: After ovulation, rising estrogen and progesterone levels stimulate physiological breast tissue proliferation, leading to changes and growth in both the mammary ducts and lobules. 2. Irritability and mood swings: In the days—sometimes even a week—preceding menstruation, some women experience emotional instability. 3. Increased appetite: This may signal the imminent onset of menstruation and reflects the body’s effort to store energy.

After girls enter puberty, they experience menstruation each month. Since individual physical constitutions vary, premenstrual bodily responses also differ. Typically, many women experience significant mood swings—such as irritability and heightened anger—as well as increased appetite and breast tenderness. So, what are the common physical symptoms before menstruation? Below, we address this question.

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Physical Symptoms Before Menstruation

1. Breast Tenderness and Pain

Following ovulation, rising estrogen and progesterone levels stimulate physiological breast tissue proliferation, leading to enlargement of mammary ducts and lobules. Consequently, some women experience breast tenderness or pain, sometimes accompanied by nipple sensitivity. It is advisable to avoid wearing overly tight undergarments, which may exacerbate discomfort. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen governs digestion and absorption, while the Kidney regulates the opening and closing of the gastrointestinal tract, influencing bowel and bladder function. During menstruation, Spleen and Kidney Qi become relatively weakened, potentially resulting in diarrhea.

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2. Irritability and Mood Swings

In the days—or even up to a week—preceding menstruation, some women experience emotional instability, such as unprovoked anger or crying, or disproportionate outbursts over minor issues. Many also report generalized fatigue and excessive drowsiness. These manifestations often signal the imminent onset of menstruation. Additionally, premenstrual headaches may occur, though they are not associated with any underlying organic disease.

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3. Increased Appetite

A heightened appetite may serve as an early sign of impending menstruation—a natural mechanism for energy conservation, enabling the body to more effectively eliminate metabolic waste and toxins. Abdominal discomfort may also occur due to hormonal fluctuations and pelvic congestion. Some women experience dull, aching, or distending pain in the lower abdomen and lumbar region, whereas others remain asymptomatic. Such sensations may begin shortly after ovulation or appear several days later; thus, abdominal discomfort commonly occurs within the two weeks preceding menstruation.

The above outlines common physical symptoms experienced before menstruation. We hope this information proves helpful.

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