Since last summer, my menstrual cycle has been all over the place, arriving every two to three weeks. The symptoms hit me hard, leaving me feeling like I have no control over my body or mind. It begins with a sharp headache (a new twist), followed by constipation, and then the next day, painful cramps—something I hadn’t experienced in years due to my IUD.
However, the physical discomfort pales in comparison to the emotional turmoil. Some days, I feel submerged, overwhelmed by everything spiraling out of control. Just the other day, while shopping for groceries, the rising prices triggered a meltdown. When I returned home, my kids asked why I didn’t buy everything on the list. I explained that I couldn’t justify spending so much on cookies or the “good steak” they wanted. Instead, I opted for a cheaper cut and planned to marinate it to enhance the flavor. As I struggled to carry in the bags, I lost my composure, and my kids scattered like startled fish.
It’s not just me feeling the pressure; my partner has mentioned that I tend to vent my frustrations on him, making him feel like a punching bag. A close friend of mine has also been struggling since last fall, feeling unmotivated and dealing with intense mood swings and prolonged periods. “Last month, I bled for over a week,” she confided, clearly distressed.
If you’re grappling with heightened PMS during this pandemic, take solace in knowing that you’re not alone—this isn’t just in your head. Research shows that women have been disproportionately affected by this crisis, facing heightened worries about finances and the health of loved ones. According to KFF, nearly 36% of women reported that stress related to the coronavirus has impacted their mental health, compared to 27% of men. Women are also more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression, and social isolation has compounded these issues.
The pandemic has shifted our daily lives, with many women leaving the workforce to manage homeschooling and household responsibilities. NPR reported that 865,000 women exited the U.S. workforce in September alone—four times the number of men. With most of the burden resting on women, it’s no wonder our stress levels have skyrocketed, which can lead to more severe PMS symptoms.
NBC News notes that PMS exacerbated by stress can manifest as emotional swings, psychological distress, and physical pain. The correlation is clear: increased stress leads to worse PMS. “PMS is influenced by stress hormones and insulin, including your estrogen and progesterone,” NBC explains. As anxiety levels rise, so do cortisol and epinephrine, leading to heightened appetite and sugar cravings.
Dr. Christiane Northrup emphasizes that the relentless fear and uncertainty stemming from the pandemic contribute to rising stress hormones, which explains why women are experiencing intensified PMS.
Despite my attempts to alleviate my symptoms with over-the-counter pain relief or comfort foods, it hasn’t been easy. I find myself reaching for unhealthy snacks, craving something to ease the emotional strain. However, Katie Bressack, a holistic nutritionist based in Los Angeles, suggests that incorporating healthy fats and proteins, like salmon and avocados, can help improve brain function and emotional clarity.
If your menstrual cycle feels unbearable, know that it’s a natural response to the increased stress we’re all facing. While acknowledging that may not provide immediate relief, understanding the root cause can help. Small daily efforts to manage stress and include stress-reducing foods in your diet can make a difference. Personally, though, I’m not ready to give up my fries or chocolate bars just yet—sometimes you need indulgence to get through tough times.
For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this informative post on intracervical insemination. If you’re interested in DIY options, Make A Mom’s artificial insemination kit provides a great resource. Additionally, if you’re seeking information on treating infertility, the ACOG offers excellent guidance.
Search Queries:
- How to manage PMS during the pandemic
- Impact of stress on menstrual cycle
- Coping strategies for emotional PMS
- Nutrition tips for PMS relief
- Signs of severe PMS
In summary, the pandemic has undeniably influenced women’s mental health and PMS experiences. Increased stress levels are linked to more intense PMS symptoms, making it essential to find ways to manage stress and seek comfort during these challenging times.