Not sure when Aunt Flo is due to visit you? The last thing you want is to get caught unaware of wearing a brand new white skirt. If you’ve got no clue when your next cycle is, specific symptoms can clue you in. Here are nine signs that your period is coming.
Discharge
Throughout most of the month, vaginal discharge is clear and water-like. But you may notice a difference in discharge before a period. The reason is increased progesterone levels before your flow, which can discharge appear whiter and cloudier.
Cramping
The uterus produces chemicals to make its muscles tighten in preparation for menstruation, which causes cramping. Abdominal cramping is usually the most intense when you’re bleeding, but this severe body pain can begin several days before your period starts. If your cramps leave you curled up in bed, try eating foods high in calcium and find a Youtube yoga routine for cramps.
Headache
Got a bad headache? Estrogen levels plummet before your period, which can lead to headaches. For anyone prone to migraines, you may notice that you’re more likely to have one in the days leading up to your period. Over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen and Excedrin can help with PMS-induced headaches.
Breakouts
Having more pimples than usual (especially around the chin and jawline) may signify that Aunt Flo is coming.
Many hormonal changes occur throughout the reproductive cycle, and hormone levels are much higher before your period. These higher levels lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, which can cause a type of breakouts called cyclical acne. Don’t be afraid to pamper yourself with an extra face mask or two while you’re coping with pre-period acne flare-ups.
Fatigue
It’s not unusual to be more tired than usual or even feel exhausted before your period. Hormones are again to blame for this problem, as they throw off your Circadian rhythm and cause you to feel more tired. Additionally, hormonal changes might increase core body temperature and make you feel hotter. Overheating at night can leave you tossing and turning, negatively affecting your sleep.
Bloating
If you’re unusually bloated, it may be due to the hormonal changes that cause water retention before your cycle. While bloat is uncomfortable, keeping yourself healthy and fit can make all the difference.
Mood swings
Premenstrual syndrome, also known as PMS, refers to emotional and physical changes before your period. PMS is responsible for the mood swings that many people experience in the days leading up to their cycles. Some individuals report feeling more irritable, crying more readily, or even feeling depressed. If you find yourself crying over spilled milk, literally or otherwise, your red wedding may be closer than you think.
Tender breasts
Starting from ovulation, you may notice some changes in your breasts. Breasts might feel swollen or tender, and these symptoms can last until after your period starts. The discomfort level associated with tender breasts ranges from mild in some people to extreme in others.
Low back pain
It’s not uncommon to experience an aching sensation in the low back during or before your period. Menstrual cramps caused by uterine contractions are to blame. In some people, the hormone responsible for cramping leads to muscle contractions in the back, causing pain.
Parting shot
Your body loves to talk if you know how to listen. While many of these signs are unpleasant, they’re thankfully temporary. If you find your period-related symptoms interfere with your daily life, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor. Happy shark week, and don’t forget to pack extra hygiene products when you go out.