Nivetha Srinath
Menstruation isn’t a Taboo. Mental Health isn’t a Taboo. You not choosing to speak about it, is a Taboo.
I would like to start off with the basics by explaining what is Menstruation and what is Mental health. Menstruation is normal vaginal bleeding that occurs as a part of a woman’s monthly cycle. Menstruation a.k.a Periods, usually starts at the age of 11-14 and continue until menopause which is at the age of 51. As many of you might know, Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. Many of you might be wondering, what’s the link between the two? You might feel bewildered on knowing the strong association between the two topics which have been overlooked in our society.
Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a group of symptoms that start one or two weeks before the actual period. These symptoms reduce when the period starts. 90% of the women experience the symptoms of PMS. But, in some women it goes beyond feelings of being off and having minor discomforts. This becomes so severe that it actually interferes with their daily activities. This is a type of PMS which has a specific name called Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Some of the common PMS symptoms are:
- Acne
- Bloating and weight gain
- Pain – Headache or joint pain
- Food cravings
- Mood swings, spells of crying, depression and feeling off
On the other hand, the symptoms of PMDD are:
- Insomnia
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Emotional sensitivity
- Diminished urine output
- Decreased coordination
PMDD symptoms are very similar to the symptoms which are seen in Major depression. This means that there is an increased risk of suicide during the two weeks during which they experience the symptoms. However, unlike major depression, the symptoms of PMDD go away after the onset of their period. A reverse effect can also happen, when one’s mental health is affected, it can have an impact on their menstruation cycle. Those women with anxiety disorder or substance abuse problems are at a greater risk to suffer from PMDD and those with eating or bipolar disorders may experience irregular cycles.
There are several factors which can affect one’s mental health when they are on their periods such as:
- Genetic Disposition: Genetics can play a role in affecting the physical aspects such as the menstrual flow and the associated body pains. Genes also play a role in the onset of menstruation that is menarche and even menopause.
- Hormonal changes: Research shows that PMDD is definitely related to drastic hormonal changes in the body. There is a link between experiencing PMDD and having low serotonin levels. When there is a drop in the serotonin levels it can contribute to a woman going through PMDD as serotonin is a chemical which is responsible for sleep and controlling moods and pain. Also, the hormonal changes that take place when one has their periods, can have a strong impact on their mood. Relationships can suffer from the emotional symptoms of PMS or PMDD which can act as additional stressors to one’s mental and emotional health.
- Social and Environmental factors: Factors such as one’s financial situation, religious and cultural values and also can have impact. Lack of support from family members can worsen one’s mental health when women are in such situations. Stress, trauma and seasonal changes can also contribute to one experiencing PMDD or PMS.
PMDD is a chronic condition that definitely needs treatment. Even PMS can be reduced in some ways such as:
- Changes in diet
- Managing stress levels
- Adopting a strong coping mechanism
- Having a strong network of women whom you can trust
- Getting advice from a professional such as a psychologist or a gynecologist
- Taking Vitamin Supplements
Mental health and Menstruation are two important topics, and an awareness is required. Efforts should be made to destigmatize mental health and menstruation so that we can make the world a better place for women to live in.
References:
Weinberger, W., Weinberger, J., Jessica Weinberger As a marketing professional and award-winning freelance writer in Minneapolis, Connors, W., Connors, H., Fabian, W., . . . Laderer, A. (2020, January 22). The truth about periods and mental health. Retrieved February 05, 2021, from https://www.talkspace.com/blog/periods-pmdd-mental-health/#:~:text=Changes%20in%20serotonin%20levels%20can,the%20symptoms%20of%20mood%20disorders.
Goyal, D. (2020, May 02). Menstruation & mental health – the SECRET CONNECTION. Retrieved February 05, 2021, from https://www.periodhub.com/2020/04/29/menstruation-and-mental-health-2/
Premenstrual syndrome | pms | pms symptoms. (2020, November 18). Retrieved February 05, 2021, from https://medlineplus.gov/premenstrualsyndrome.html
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (pmdd). (n.d.). Retrieved February 05, 2021, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd
