Ever heard the saying, "Eat a Snickers - you're not you when you have PMS"? I'm sure my friend would say something like that when I start feeling like I could climb walls in the days before my period...

In my case, I'm a typical Type A (okayyyy, and maybe a bit of Type C too)...

Did you know that there are different types of PMS? Depending on the symptoms you experience in the week before your period, you can categorize yourself into one or more types. This classification not only helps you better understand what's happening with your body, but also gives you the power to do something about those pesky symptoms!

PMS Type A(nxiety) - The Moody One

Symptoms: About 20-30% of all women experience heightened sensitivity before their period. If you're a Type A, your PMS manifests as emotional instability. A cute dog picture can make you cry, while a wrong word can make you lose your cool. Self-doubt, fear of the future, and fear of loss are also common with this type of PMS.

Cause: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins. You can also try chaste tree (after consulting your gynecologist), vitamin B6 (found in avocados and legumes), as well as chamomile and lemon balm tea, which have calming and balancing effects. Don't forget to get enough sleep and reduce stress through relaxation exercises or a nice walk (hello, vitamin D!).

PMS Type C(arvings) - The Insatiable Caterpillar

Symptoms: Hunger!!! Just before your period, you find yourself wanting to park your chair right next to the all-you-can-eat buffet. Cravings for sweets and unhealthy foods are the telltale signs of PMS Type C.
Cause: Hormonal imbalances can also lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, resulting in intense sugar cravings. Binge eating is often accompanied by fatigue, headaches, and dizziness.
Help: Vitamin B3 helps stabilize blood sugar levels, while vitamins B1 and B12 support metabolism and carbohydrate burning. Eat small, frequent meals every 3-4 hours to keep hunger at bay. Distract yourself from the cravings with a nice walk or a trip to the cinema.

PMS Type D(epression) - The Sad One

Symptoms: Unlike Type A, your mood doesn't fluctuate but rather stays consistently low, bringing your self-confidence down with it. Additional problems such as poor memory, confusion, and insomnia can also accompany this type of PMS.
Cause: For Type D, it's the opposite of Type A - high progesterone levels paired with low estrogen levels. This combination also leads to an increased release of the stress hormone adrenaline, while the production of the happiness hormone dopamine takes a backseat. Stress and a lack of nutrients can further lower estrogen levels.
Help: Boost your vitamin D and calcium intake. Include foods containing phytoestrogens like soy, lentils, fennel, and oats in your diet. And yes, chocolate can help with serotonin production too! Engaging in physical activity and exercise, especially endurance training like cycling and swimming, can also help regulate hormone balance and lift your spirits.

PMS type H(hydration) - The Bloated One

Symptoms: If you fall into the PMS Type H category, get ready for some "hyperhydration" action. You'll experience that dreaded bloated feeling, along with heavy legs and an overall sensation of feeling "fat" and bloated. On top of that, about 85% of women with this type of PMS also suffer from hypersensitive or tender breasts.
Causes: Just like Type A, the unequal balance between estrogen and progesterone could be a culprit here. Estradiol, a type of estrogen, plays a significant role in water retention. It can cause your skin and tissues to hold onto water, widen blood vessels, and even lower blood pressure. Your body also produces serotonin to counteract high estrogen levels, but this hormone has the side effect of making blood vessel walls more permeable, leading to water retention.
Help: If you're looking to reduce water retention, magnesium is your friend. Drink still water and try to avoid excessive coffee, alcohol, and salt intake. Incorporating foods like celery, rice, asparagus, and juniper into your diet can naturally aid in "drainage."
For some additional relief, an aroma wrap can work wonders in helping your body eliminate excess water.

Combination Types:

If none of the symptoms mentioned above seem to fit you, or if you feel like you relate to several types, you might fall into the PMS Type O or Type T category:

PMS-O (ther) - The Other

If none of the other types resonate with you, it's time to have a chat with your doctor. They can help you understand your unique symptoms and guide you toward the best treatment options.

PMS-T(otal Overall Symptoms) - The All-Rounder

If you found yourself thinking, "Check, check, and double check!" while reading through the different types, chances are you're a mixed type. The good news is that now you know what's causing your symptoms, and you can take appropriate action to alleviate them.
Remember, it's important not to be too hard on yourself! If you're craving a piece of chocolate or simply want to cozy up in bed with your sana® Heat Pantie, go ahead and indulge. Self-care and treating yourself with kindness are essential during this time.