Premenstrual tension, or PMS, is a complex phenomenon that affects the majority of women of reproductive age, bringing with it an avalanche of physical and emotional symptoms that are not always easy to deal with.
So, if you want some practical tips to make this period more bearable, you’re in the right place. After all, sharing experiences and solutions can transform the way we experience this monthly visitor.
In this article, we will delve into this turbulent time that occurs every month, exploring not only its challenges, but also the many ways to overcome them.
And of course, we’ll cover how cannabidiol (CBD) can be a natural relief for so many symptoms occurring at the same time.
Ready? Grab your favourite snack, snuggle up and let’s start this journey together!
What is Premenstrual Tension (PMS)?
Premenstrual Tension (PMS) is a complex set of symptoms that affect women, generally in the second half of the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and tend to disappear with the start of menstruation.
You know those days before your period and you barely recognize yourself? The body becomes swollen, the head hurts, the mood goes from 0 to 100, the breasts become extremely sensitive, an inexplicable tiredness invades your being and the uncontrollable desire to eat chocolate appears – let the woman who has never felt this throw the first stone !
Well, this is the famous PMS. And, believe me, you are not alone in this whirlwind of symptoms!
In fact, according to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), PMS affects more than 90% of women of reproductive age, with 10% to 15% of them experiencing severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily life (NHS, 2020).
In other words, much more than a “bad mood”, it is a complex health issue that can have a significant impact on day-to-day life, which further reinforces the importance of effective approaches to its management.
Practical Tips to Relieve PMS Symptoms
Dealing with PMS can be a challenge, but there are several practical tips that can help alleviate symptoms and make this period more bearable:
1. Regular Physical Activity
- Why it helps: Exercise releases endorphins, known as happiness hormones, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of pain.
- What you can do: Choose light to moderate activities that you enjoy, such as walking, yoga, swimming or dancing, for at least 30 minutes most days.
2. Balanced diet
- Why it helps: Some nutrients and eating patterns can influence the hormonal and inflammatory symptoms of PMS.
- What you can do: Prioritise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein sources. Include foods rich in calcium (such as dairy or fortified alternatives), magnesium (nuts, seeds, leafy greens) and omega-3s (fatty fish, flaxseed).
3. Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol Consumption
- Why it helps: Both can worsen PMS symptoms, including irritability and difficulty sleeping.
- What you can do: Try to limit or avoid drinking caffeinated drinks and alcohol, especially in the week before your period.
4. Stress Management
- Why it helps: Stress can exacerbate the emotional symptoms of PMS.
- What you can do: Practise relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, or spend time in activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable.
5. Quality Sleep
- Why it helps: Sleeping well can help regulate your mood and reduce fatigue.
- What you can do: Establish a relaxing nighttime routine, keep your bedroom comfortable, and try to sleep and wake up at the same times every day.
ADDITIONAL: Seeing a Health Professional is Also Important
In cases of severe PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a professional may recommend other treatment options.
Schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and treatment options, which may include therapy, medications, or other interventions.
CBD: A PMS Natural Remedy
If you’ve been following Happy Hemper for a while, you know that CBD – one of the countless compounds in Cannabis – is capable of alleviating symptoms of various health conditions, promoting health and well-being for people.
This happens because it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating various functions, including pain, sleep, mood, and immune response.
When it comes to the female body and PMS, it can be quite a natural remedy. See why:
- Pain management: CBD has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve muscle pain and cramps caused by periods.
- Better humour: Mood fluctuations are common symptoms of PMS. Thus, CBD can have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, helping to promote emotional balance by increasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood.
- Better sleep quality: Difficulty sleeping can be another challenge of PMS. CBD can help improve sleep quality, facilitating relaxation and reducing insomnia. This is particularly helpful for women who struggle to get restful sleep during this time.
Do you want to know how we can help you insert this 100% natural compound into your daily life? So, continue reading!
Woman’s Hemper: The Perfect Happy Hemper Box for PMS
The Women’s Box was designed with great care to offer relief and comfort during the PMS period, combining high quality and effective CBD products:
- Canax capsules, designed to relieve pain and tension;
- Chocolate Cheerful Buddha, which in addition to being delicious, incorporates the calming properties of CBD
- Body Balm Happy Hemper, ideal for topical application, relieving discomfort in a targeted way.
This set seeks to offer a holistic approach to combating PMS symptoms, combining the therapeutic benefits of CBD with the pleasure provided by chocolate and self-care, transforming the monthly PMS experience into something more manageable and even pleasurable.
And, the best part? You can receive this box monthly, directly in the comfort of your home, simply by subscribing online through the Happy Hemper website.
Visit the page on our website and discover how easy it is to subscribe! Give yourself the care and attention you deserve, especially during the most challenging days of the month.