Menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle is counted from the 1st day of bleeding and lasts from 21 to 35 days (average 28). During this period, certain processes occur in the ovaries and uterus of a woman, accompanied by hormonal changes.
On the first day, prostaglandins are released, causing vasoconstriction and bleeding. At the same time, especially against the background of low blood pressure, a woman may have migraines, lower abdominal pain and general malaise.
Further, until the middle of the cycle (about 14 days), the maturation of the egg takes place, which is accompanied by a rise in the level of estrogen. These are the most “female” hormones. They have a beneficial effect on the appearance and well-being. Therefore, the first half of the cycle is the most favorable for women, physically and emotionally.
At the time of ovulation (3 days in the middle of the cycle), the level of male hormones rises, primarily testosterone. It gives strength, energy, increases sexuality. The woman is at the peak of her beauty and health. This is the time of possible conception.
In the second half, from about 14-16 days until the end of the cycle, progesterone rises. This is a “pregnancy hormone”, it works until the body realizes that conception has not occurred. An increase in progesterone causes symptoms called PMS – premenstrual syndrome: mood swings, slight fluid retention (1-2 kg), drowsiness, food moods, breast enlargement, etc.
What is important to know
Almost all women, to one degree or another, are subject to physical and mental changes under the influence of the processes of the menstrual cycle, including PMS. This is normal as long as it does not cause concern or impair the quality of life. But if premenstrual syndrome becomes pronounced and knocks out of the usual rhythm, this may indicate a hormonal imbalance. This condition can and should be corrected.
How to eliminate PMS
Severe PMS, accompanied by migraines and pain in the lower abdomen, emotional instability, fluid retention, chest discomfort, and other unpleasant manifestations, can be relieved with certain measures. Diet, physical activity, pain relievers, especially antispasmodics, have a beneficial effect.
PMS symptoms are usually associated with hormonal imbalances. For a long time, medicinal plants have been used to harmonize the ratio of hormones in the female body. The most famous of them is Agnuscastus – sacred vitex.
It was used to treat female diseases as far back as ancient Greece during the time of Hippocrates. Agnuscastus helps to normalize the level of the hormone prolactin, and also regulates the balance of estrogen and progesterone and, when used as a course, normalizes the course of the menstrual cycle, eliminating pain in the mammary gland, irritability and other manifestations of premenstrual syndrome.