More Lavender Less Salt: How You Can Help Mitigate the Symptoms of PMS

PMS or premenstrual syndrome is the term given to a specific set of symptoms that occur in the 3 to 14 days before menstruation. Some of the manifestations include pain, irritability, fatigue, mood swings, bloating, and food cravings. When I was in high school and college, there were days my PMS was so bad, I needed to take a sick day. Now at age 40, my periods might be lighter in flow and shorter in duration, but the PMS is still there! So until menopause comes around, I use everything in my feminine arsenal to either prevent or mitigate the symptoms of PMS. And so far, I've hit on a few things that actually work.

An ounce of prevention....

The best way to avoid PMS cramps is to take a pain reliever before you even feel the discomfort. Why wait till you are in pain and then wait another 30-60 minutes before the pills take effect? I prefer Aleve since one pill provides a good 7-8 hours of relief.

Lavender, ah lavender

I believe the in power of aromatherapy and the scent of lavender can help mitigate the symptoms of PMS. Lavender has been shown to not only calm your senses, but it may also promote relaxation and stabilize your mood. Many beauty products come in lavender scents including lotion, soap, and facial sprays.

Work that body

Physical activity releases neurotransmitters in the brain called endorphins which help to reduce tension and pain perception. So exercise can mitigate the symptoms of PMS, but make sure you give yourself adequate rest periods. Rest decreases the amount of energy and oxygen use, leaving more available to your muscles.

Don't pass the salt

Water retention is common with menstruation. Salt retains water. So avoiding salt and salty foods like potato chips when you have your period can help mitigate the symptoms of PMS. If you have a craving for salty foods, try a mint or brushing your teeth.

Make that a decaf please

Menstrual cramps are caused when the uterus contracts to shed its lining. These contractions constrict the blood vessels to the uterus and reduce the amount of oxygenated blood flow, which may cause more cramping. Caffeine constricts blood vessels. So stick to decaffeinated coffee and tea and limit the chocolate when it's that time of the month.

Sex? Yes!

If you can tolerate it, try fooling around to help mitigate the symptoms of PMS. It turns out an orgasm may help relieve the discomfort associated with PMS (and yes it does work!)

Sources:

WebMd, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms, June 2010

Discovery Fit and Health, How Caffeine Works

Mayo Clinic, Menstrual Cramps, May 2011

University of Maryland Medical Center, Lavender, March 2009

Lemone, Pricilla and Burke, Karen (2008). Clinical Handbook On Medical Surgical Nursing (4th ed). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, Chapter 51 p. 1798 and 1800

Reader's Digest Online, 10 Ways to Control Your Cravings

Personal experience