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Early Signs of Menstruation – Menstruation is a natural phenomenon experienced by every woman of reproductive age. Understanding and recognizing the symptoms and signs of an approaching period is essential for women to prepare themselves physically and emotionally. While these signs may vary from one woman to another, several common symptoms are frequently experienced before menstruation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the common signs indicating that your period is about to start, helping you better understand and anticipate changes in your body.
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Early Signs of Menstruation ( Signs Your Period Is Coming )
1. Mood Swings
Many believe that women tend to become more sensitive before their period, and this is not just a myth. Research indicates that around 75% of women experience mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, or sadness, in the days leading up to their period (Yonkers et al., 2008). This condition, commonly known as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), is triggered by hormonal fluctuations.
A few days before menstruation, you may feel unusually emotional, tearful, or easily irritated. If you suddenly experience these feelings, it could be a strong indication that your period is about to begin.
2. Acne Breakouts
Another common premenstrual symptom is acne breakouts. Although acne can occur at any time, adult women are more prone to breakouts due to hormonal changes related to menstruation. Increased androgen levels before a period can lead to excess sebum production, clogging pores and resulting in acne. This type of acne, known as cyclical acne, typically appears during the menstrual cycle.
3. Breast Tenderness or Heaviness
Before menstruation, hormone levels—including estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin—fluctuate, causing breast tenderness. It is common to experience swelling or soreness in the breasts from ovulation until a few days after bleeding starts. For some women, this discomfort lasts until the end of their period, while others feel it only at the beginning of their menstrual cycle.
4. Fatigue but Difficulty Sleeping
Hormonal changes before menstruation can also disrupt sleep patterns. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels may raise core body temperature, particularly at night, making it harder to fall asleep. As a result, poor sleep quality often leads to fatigue and decreased energy levels throughout the day.
5. Abdominal Cramps
Lower abdominal cramps are one of the most common menstrual symptoms. Cramps that occur before or during menstruation are called primary dysmenorrhea. Unlike other symptoms that appear 1–2 weeks before a period and subside once bleeding starts, cramps typically begin just before menstruation and last for about 2–3 days.
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6. Lower Back Pain
In addition to breast tenderness and abdominal cramps, another sign of an approaching period is lower back pain. This occurs due to changes in natural chemicals called prostaglandins, which line the uterus and cause contractions that can also be felt in the back or thighs.
7. Constipation or Diarrhea
As your period approaches, your digestive system may fluctuate between two extremes. You might experience constipation due to slowed bowel movements or, conversely, diarrhea caused by hormonal changes affecting the digestive tract.
8. Bloating
Bloating is another common premenstrual symptom. Increased progesterone levels can slow digestion, leading to bloating and constipation. If you frequently experience bloating before your period, try staying hydrated, eating fiber-rich foods, and maintaining a regular exercise routine to alleviate the discomfort.
9. Headaches
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen levels, can trigger headaches. If you are prone to migraines, you may notice more frequent attacks before your period. Consulting a doctor and taking prescribed pain relievers can help manage this symptom effectively.
10. Food Cravings
If you suddenly crave chocolate (or other specific foods) before your period, hormonal fluctuations are likely the cause. These changes can influence appetite and food cravings at different stages of the menstrual cycle. Some women also experience an increase in appetite before their period. While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help reduce bloating and other PMS symptoms.
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Recognizing the signs of an approaching period is crucial for women to prepare themselves and manage these symptoms effectively. If your symptoms become overwhelming, consulting a doctor or healthcare professional can help you receive appropriate treatment. Studies and expert opinions emphasize the importance of awareness and understanding of the body’s changes before menstruation.
By identifying these signs, women can better manage their menstrual cycle and maintain their physical and emotional well-being.
For more information on reproductive health or pregnancy programs, consult the professional team at Morula IVF. As Indonesia’s leading fertility clinic, Morula IVF offers expert consultations and comprehensive reproductive health services with highly experienced specialists. With over 26 years of expertise, Morula IVF is dedicated to helping couples achieve their dream of having a healthy baby. For further details, visit the official Morula IVF website or contact the clinic for inquiries and consultations.
References:
- Yonkers, K. A., O’Brien, P. M. S., & Eriksson, E. (2008). Premenstrual syndrome. The Lancet, 371(9619), 1200-1210.
- WebMD. Retrieved in 2024.. Signs Your Period Is Coming
- Plansned Parenthood. Retrieved in 2024. What’s up with periods?
- Your Period. Retrieved in 2024. Symptoms of Menstruation
- Natural Cycles. Retrieved in 2024. 11 Signs your period is coming
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