Q Why does PMS (premenstrual syndrome) happen?
A It is a state in which both body and emotions are affected by the rapid hormonal shifts during the 1-2 weeks before menstruation (the luteal phase). The sharp changes in estrogen and progesterone disrupt the brain's serotonin balance, triggering symptoms such as irritability, low mood, swelling, and breast tenderness.
Detailed Answer
After ovulation, progesterone rises sharply during the luteal phase and then drops abruptly just before menstruation, causing the estrogen ratio to fluctuate as well. These hormonal changes affect serotonin and GABA signaling in the brain, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and reduced concentration, while shifts in aldosterone activity bring on swelling and weight gain. Common physical symptoms include breast fullness, headache, fatigue, and digestive discomfort.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, this is understood as a state in which the energy (qi) of the Liver fails to flow and becomes stagnant, known as Liver-qi stagnation (ganul-giche). When Liver energy becomes stagnant before menstruation, emotions surge and the flow of qi and blood is blocked, producing breast fullness and swelling. Releasing the blocked energy to restore circulation is the starting point of treatment.
Related FAQs
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Q
Can PMS go away completely, or do I have to manage it for life?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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My menstrual cramps are also severe. Can PMS and menstrual cramps be treated together?
#Comorbidities
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My anxiety and depression worsen before my period. Is this also PMS, or does it need separate treatment?
#Comorbidities
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Q
I hear exercise helps with PMS. What kind of exercise should I do, and how much?
#Lifestyle Management
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How should I spend the two weeks before my period to make symptoms milder? I'd like easy, practical methods.
#Lifestyle Management