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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects up to 75% of menstruating women. PMS refers to the symptoms that occur one to two weeks before menstruation, including physical and emotional changes. While the exact cause of PMS is unknown, it is believed to be related to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. One of the symptoms of PMS is muscle aches, which can range from mild to severe and can disrupt daily life. These muscle aches may be linked to hormonal changes or underlying gynecological issues. In addition to PMS, menstrual periods themselves can also cause muscle aches, possibly due to the release of prostaglandins, which cause excessive contractions in the uterus.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause of muscle aches | Hormonal changes, gynecological issues, or underlying conditions |
| Common symptoms | Mood swings, pelvic pain, butt pain, severe menstrual cramping |
| Timing | PMS symptoms occur one to two weeks before the period, but the timing can vary |
| Treatment | Lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, hormonal contraception, anti-inflammatory medication |
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What You'll Learn
Hormonal changes
While the exact cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is unknown, several factors may contribute to the condition, and muscle aches are one of the symptoms. PMS symptoms can be physical, emotional, or a combination of both, and they can range from mild to severe. They can also vary in timing, occurring anywhere from two weeks to two days before a person's period.
Hormone imbalances can also lead to severe period cramps and muscle aches. While the exact cause of the hormone imbalance epidemic is not fully understood, it is prevalent among women. Consuming herbs and other natural remedies can help alleviate pain and balance hormones. Magnesium, for example, helps relax muscles and regulate the nervous system, so low levels of magnesium could contribute to muscle tension and pain.
Additionally, fluid retention during PMS can increase pressure in the head, causing headaches, and lead to bloating and swelling, which can put pressure on joints and muscles, resulting in discomfort.
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Underlying gynecological issues
While menstrual periods can cause muscle aches, especially for women dealing with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), these aches may also point to underlying gynecological issues. These issues can cause severe discomfort and disrupt daily life, so recognizing and addressing them is essential for managing your health.
Uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are all conditions that can exacerbate muscle ache symptoms. PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome. Pelvic inflammatory disease can cause non-cyclical pain, while uterine fibroids can cause dysmenorrhea, or period pain.
Adhesions or scar tissue from previous surgeries or conditions like endometriosis may also be a factor. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, affecting nearby nerves and causing pain. Endometriosis can cause leg pain and is often associated with muscle aches during menstruation.
Uterine growths, lesions, or scar tissue can also be underlying gynecological issues that cause muscle aches. These issues can be addressed with healthcare strategies such as laparoscopy to remove or treat growths. Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can also help manage severe symptoms by regulating hormone levels.
Pelvic pain, which can be caused by uterine dysfunction, a uterine tumor, or other underlying conditions, can radiate to the back, waist, hips, thighs, or groin. It is important to seek medical attention for severe, persistent, or acute pelvic pain to receive a thorough diagnosis and treatment.
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Herbal remedies
Muscle aches are a common symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and can be linked to hormonal shifts during ovulation or the shedding of the uterus lining. Herbal remedies can help ease PMS symptoms and make the week before your period more manageable. Here are some herbal remedies that can help alleviate muscle aches caused by PMS:
- Devil's Claw: This is a licensed herbal remedy that helps relieve muscle and joint pain.
- Arnica: This is a topical alternative that is particularly soothing when stored in the fridge before use.
- Mint: A 2016 study found that peppermint extract in capsule form was as effective as mefenamic acid in reducing pain intensity and duration. Peppermint oil is also thought to work as a muscle relaxant and can help release tension caused by menstrual contractions.
- Ginger: Ginger is one of many herbs that may help alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Pycnogenol: A 2008 study suggested that Pycnogenol, an extract containing maritime pine bark, could reduce pain and the need for OTC painkillers in women with menstrual cramps.
- Chinese Herbs: Traditional Chinese herbs are commonly used to treat different menstrual problems and are usually combined into specific blends that vary from one practitioner to the next.
- Agnus Castus: This herb, also known as "the women's herb," is known to benefit hormones and help with PMS symptoms. However, it is not suitable to take alongside hormonal birth control.
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea has been found to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps and alleviate mood symptoms associated with PMS. It is calming for the nervous system and helps reduce emotional symptoms like anger and irritability. It also aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Shatavari: This Ayurvedic herb from India is known as "The Queen of Herbs" due to its hormone-balancing properties for women. It is considered a reproductive tonic and is often prescribed to enhance fertility and support a healthy libido.
- Passiflora: This herb is excellent for the nervous system, reducing stress, and aiding sleep. It can be taken alongside Agnus Castus to manage anger and irritability throughout the month.
- Echinacea: This herb supports the immune system, which tends to weaken when oestrogen drops in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
- Valerian: Valerian aids sleep and calms the nervous system, making it helpful for premenstrual insomnia. It is also antispasmodic, which can relieve cramps that interfere with sleep.
- Lemon Balm: This herb promotes relaxation, eases insomnia, and reduces gas and bloating. It has been studied for its effect on easing heavy periods and period pain.
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Over-the-counter medications
PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a combination of symptoms that appear before a person's period. These symptoms can be physical, such as bloating, sore breasts, and muscle aches, or emotional, such as irritability or sadness. PMS symptoms can be disruptive and interfere with daily life.
If you are experiencing muscle aches due to PMS, there are several over-the-counter medications that can help. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are painkillers that can also help reduce inflammation. Common over-the-counter NSAIDs include:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Aspirin
These medications can be purchased without a prescription and are typically taken orally. They work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause uterine contractions and contribute to menstrual cramps. NSAIDs can effectively relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with PMS, including muscle aches.
In addition to NSAIDs, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is another over-the-counter option. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen is not an anti-inflammatory drug, but it is effective in blocking pain receptors in the brain. It can be taken with an NSAID for added relief.
Other over-the-counter products like Midol and Pamprin combine a pain reliever with other medications to address multiple PMS symptoms, such as bloating and cramps.
While these medications can help alleviate muscle aches and other PMS symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or become severe. They can advise on the most suitable treatment options and rule out any underlying causes.
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Lifestyle modifications
Diet
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce bloating and the sensation of fullness.
- Limit salt and salty foods to reduce bloating and fluid retention.
- Choose foods high in complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in magnesium. Try to eat less saturated animal fats, processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugar.
- Choose foods rich in calcium. If you can't tolerate dairy products or aren't getting enough calcium in your diet, consider taking a daily calcium supplement.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Exercise
- Engage in at least 30 minutes of brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or other aerobic activity most days of the week. Regular daily exercise can help improve your overall health and alleviate certain symptoms, such as fatigue and a depressed mood.
- Gentle exercises can help increase blood flow, which means oxygen can be efficiently delivered to your joints and muscles, and waste materials can be swiftly taken away. Exercise also helps to increase levels of endorphins.
Sleep
Get plenty of sleep.
Supplements
- Nutritional supplements such as calcium, vitamin B6, or magnesium may be recommended by a healthcare provider. These supplements are thought to promote hormonal balance and help reduce PMS symptoms.
- Agnus castus is a licensed herbal remedy that can help relieve PMS symptoms.
- Devil's claw is a licensed herbal remedy for muscle and joint pain. Arnica is a nice topical alternative that is particularly soothing if stored in the fridge before use.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, muscle aches are a common symptom of PMS, along with mood swings, pelvic pain, butt pain, severe menstrual cramping, headaches, breast soreness, and lower back pain.
PMS symptoms are believed to be caused by hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle. Slight niggles can become exacerbated as a result of a barrage of hormones and chemicals circulating around the body.
It is estimated that as many as 3 out of 4 menstruating women experience some form of PMS.
Lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter medications can often relieve PMS symptoms. If these do not work, consult a healthcare provider to discuss other treatments.
Yes, muscle aches may also point to underlying gynecological issues such as uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
