4. PMS Symptoms & Managing Cramps
Many girls notice physical and emotional symptoms before or during their period. These are often called PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Common symptoms include cramps, which are caused by uterine contractions pushing out the lining. You might feel a dull ache or sharp pain in your lower belly or back; this is totally normal. Other possible symptoms are:
- Mood changes or irritability: Hormonal ups and downs can make you feel more emotional, teary, or easily annoyed.
- Headaches and fatigue: You may feel tired or get headaches. (Getting enough sleep and hydration can help.)
- Bloating and breast tenderness: Feeling a bit puffy or noticing sore boobs before or during your period is common.
- Acne or breakouts: Hormone shifts can trigger pimples or oily skin in some teens.
- Food cravings or hunger: Some girls crave carbs or chocolate due to hormone changes.
If your cramps are mild, simple home remedies often help. Try a heating pad or warm bath to relax your muscles. Gentle exercise (like walking, yoga, or stretching) can actually reduce cramp pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can also make a big difference – just follow the instructions and talk to a parent first. Drinking plenty of water and eating balanced meals (including iron-rich foods like spinach or beans) can help you feel better, too.
Many menstrual products are available. Here’s a typical reusable menstrual cup, a popular eco-friendly alternative to pads or tampons. You have choices – what matters is finding what feels comfortable for you.
Emotions can feel heightened around your period.
If you feel unusually sad or anxious every month to the point it interferes with your life, mention it to someone you trust. In most cases, PMS is just a real physical reaction to hormones – you’re not “overreacting.” Simple self-care (rest, talking to friends, listening to music, etc.) can help you cope. And remember, these symptoms usually pass when your period is over.
4. PMS Symptoms & Managing Cramps
Many girls notice physical and emotional symptoms before or during their period. These are often called PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Common symptoms include cramps, which are caused by uterine contractions pushing out the lining. You might feel a dull ache or sharp pain in your lower belly or back; this is totally normal. Other possible symptoms are:
- Mood changes or irritability: Hormonal ups and downs can make you feel more emotional, teary, or easily annoyed.
- Headaches and fatigue: You may feel tired or get headaches. (Getting enough sleep and hydration can help.)
- Bloating and breast tenderness: Feeling a bit puffy or noticing sore boobs before or during your period is common.
- Acne or breakouts: Hormone shifts can trigger pimples or oily skin in some teens.
- Food cravings or hunger: Some girls crave carbs or chocolate due to hormone changes.
If your cramps are mild, simple home remedies often help. Try a heating pad or warm bath to relax your muscles. Gentle exercise (like walking, yoga, or stretching) can actually reduce cramp pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can also make a big difference – just follow the instructions and talk to a parent first. Drinking plenty of water and eating balanced meals (including iron-rich foods like spinach or beans) can help you feel better, too.
Many menstrual products are available. Here’s a typical reusable menstrual cup, a popular eco-friendly alternative to pads or tampons. You have choices – what matters is finding what feels comfortable for you.
Emotions can feel heightened around your period.
If you feel unusually sad or anxious every month to the point it interferes with your life, mention it to someone you trust. In most cases, PMS is just a real physical reaction to hormones – you’re not “overreacting.” Simple self-care (rest, talking to friends, listening to music, etc.) can help you cope. And remember, these symptoms usually pass when your period is over.
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