What Are the Causes of PMS?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is caused by a combination of hormonal, chemical, and lifestyle factors that affect women during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle, typically 1-2 weeks before menstruation. The primary cause is hormonal fluctuations, particularly the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone levels, which impact the brain's neurotransmitters, like serotonin. Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood, and its decrease during this phase can lead to emotional symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Other contributing factors include lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and inadequate sleep, which can exacerbate physical symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and headaches. Caffeine, alcohol, and high salt or sugar intake can also worsen PMS symptoms. Stress can further magnify both emotional and physical symptoms, making PMS more difficult to manage. Additionally, genetic factors may play a role, as some women are more predisposed to severe PMS if there is a family history of it. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management can help alleviate symptoms.
