Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

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She doesn't want me to touch her!
Kwaku: What's wrong with you dear?

Jael: I feel tired,my breast is sore and my whole body is paining me. (Jael crying)

Kwaku: I am tired of this ,every month you will be experiencing different symptoms. Last month, I had to stop going to work just to take care of you.Today we are going to the hospital.

Jael:No I will be OK. I am sure it is because my period is coming soon.

Kwaku: No we are going.

(Kwaku and Jael goes to the hospital and in the consultation room)

Doctor: You are welcome. How can I help you?

Kwaku: Doctor,it's my lady here. Every month she has different symptoms and it bothers me. Sometimes she does not want me to touch her at all and sometimes she wants me  to be around her 24 hours.

Doctor: Jael, please whats wrong with you?

 Jael: Every month before my menses, I feel strange symptoms and I don't know the cause.

Doctor :What you feel is known as premenstrual syndrome.

Kwaku: Really?

Doctor :Premenstrual syndrome is basically a group of  symptoms that occur in women, typically between ovulation and a period. PMS is a condition that affects a woman's physical health, emotions and behavior some days before menstruation begins. This happens to almost every woman but you should be concerned if symptoms begin to affect your daily life or if symptoms don't go away.

Jael: Doctor, how will I know I have symptoms of PMS?

 Doctor: Symptoms PMS may be:
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Sore breasts
  • Acne
  • Food cravings , especially sweets
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Change in sleep patterns
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Sadness
  • Emotional outbursts
  • Crying spells
  • Poor concentration
  • Change in libido
  • Social withdrawal

Kwaku:No wonder last two months you were sad for no reason. I now understand. Doctor,what could be the possible cause of PMS?

Doctor: Some possible causes include ;
  • Cyclic changes in hormones
  • Chemical changes in the brain
  • Depression

Kwaku: Doctor, so what can I do to help Jael out when she  has PMS?

Doctor: You should report to the doctor to  examine her and give her appropriate treatment. To ease the symptoms, Jael you could;
  • Drink plenty of fluids to ease abdominal bloating
  • Eat balanced diet and reduce intake of sugar, salt, caffeine and alcohol
  • Take supplements such as folic acid, vitamin B6, calcium and magnesium to reduce cramps and mood swings.
  • Get enough sleep.  At least 8 hours a day
  • Exercise at least 3 times a week or 30 minutes each day.
  • Reduce stress by engaging in activities such as reading.
  • You could also take some pain killers to reduce pain.


Jael: Doctor, thanks for your information.

Doctor:Your health is my priority. PMS is a condition that makes life a little uncomfortable at times, but with the needed knowledge, almost every female can cope with it. It's all about striving to have an easier and better life.

Kwaku: Doctor I'm glad, I came.Now I can go through the period with her.I am glad I can support and help her now.




By Priscilla Aku Nuna Dotse
JR Women Care Foundation




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