What Does A Period Feel Like?

One would think that those monthly period cycles and the symptoms of periods that come as a bonus would eventually become just another part of a woman’s life! However, that is far from being true, as every woman would tell you. As much as PMS symptoms come and go every month, they can be equally distressing and painful each time, if not more. With time, though, one learns how one’s body reacts to periods and can then anticipate what may be coming and in turn be prepared for it. This means that you need to know more about the symptoms before periods and the ones you experience during those 3-7 days, so you have fewer surprises and are more prepared!

Once you have your period, you may not look forward to it — but it won’t be that bad either. Sometimes you may get cramps in your lower body which are mild or very painful and are not necessarily consistent from one month to another; sometimes you may feel just fine. However, one thing that all women would say is that they eventually learn to cope with PMS symptoms. PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is a group of symptoms that tend to occur around a week or two before your period. These symptoms can be both physical and physiological and, like cramps, they may be different every month. The good news is that PMS symptoms usually stop once your period starts.

When you understand your usual period symptoms, you’ll be better at treating yourself during this time. Here are some other typical symptoms of periods you might have experienced:

• Acne

• Bloating

• Breast tenderness

• Weight gain

• Trouble concentrating

• Headaches/backaches

• Food cravings/overeating

• Fatigue

• Tearfulness

• Irritability

• Anxiety

• Mood swings and/or depression

Any of these sound familiar? Well, although the body’s response to periods may vary from one woman to another, the symptoms of periods remain fairly common, possibly differing in intensity, frequency and duration.

But did you know your diet may help avoid or reduce the impact of these discomforts? Don’t let periods decide how you live your life!