Since last summer, I’ve been experiencing my period every two to three weeks. It arrives with a vengeance, and I feel completely at the mercy of my body and mind. The first sign is a sharp headache (a new symptom), followed by severe constipation, and then, the next day, cramps — something I hadn’t dealt with for nearly three years due to my IUD.
But the physical discomfort isn’t the worst part. The mental anguish can be unbearable. I often feel like I’m drowning, and everything around me is spiraling out of control. During my last grocery trip, the rising prices triggered a meltdown. When I returned home, my kids asked why I didn’t buy everything on the list. I explained that I couldn’t justify spending so much on a bag of cookies or the “fancy steak” they wanted. Instead, I opted for a cheaper cut, thinking to marinate it for better flavor. As I carried in the bags, I lost it, and my kids scattered like startled fish.
It’s not just my kids who are feeling the strain. My partner has mentioned that I seem to take out all my stress on him, making him feel like a punching bag. A friend of mine in her thirties has also been struggling since last fall, completely lacking motivation, and her periods and mood swings have been more intense than ever. “I bled for over a week last month,” she told me tearfully during a recent call.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re experiencing heightened PMS during the pandemic, you’re not alone — and it’s not just in your head. Research indicates that women are bearing a heavier burden during this crisis, worrying more about finances and family health than men, according to KFF. The data shows that nearly 36% of women report that stress related to the coronavirus has impacted their mental health. Given that women are generally more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression, it’s not surprising that social distancing has added layers of isolation and anxiety.
The pandemic has altered our lives more significantly than men’s. NPR reported that in September, an astonishing 865,000 women left the U.S. workforce — four times the number of men. This means many women are now juggling homeschooling alongside all household responsibilities, with few outlets for relief. The weight of this stress affects our hormones, intensifying PMS symptoms.
The Impact of Stress on PMS
According to NBC News, “PMS stress can manifest as heightened emotional swings, psychological distress, and physical pain.” More stress equates to worse PMS. “PMS is influenced by stress hormones and insulin, including your estrogen and progesterone,” NBC News explains. Increased anxiety leads to higher stress hormone levels, which can trigger cravings for sugar and comfort food.
Dr. Christiane Northrup notes that the constant fear surrounding the virus adds to our stress levels — it’s no wonder women are experiencing worsened PMS. No amount of Midol or indulgent chocolate has alleviated my symptoms over the past year. It’s tough not to reach for unhealthy snacks when battling hormonal chaos, but Los Angeles-based nutritionist Katie Bressack suggests opting for foods rich in healthy fats and protein, such as salmon, olive oil, and avocados, to support brain function and improve clarity.
Finding Balance
If you’re finding it hard to cope with your menstrual cycle during this stressful time, know that it’s a common response to the unprecedented challenges we face. Understanding the cause may not solve everything, but small daily stress management techniques and incorporating nutritious foods can help. I’m willing to try — but I won’t be giving up my fries or KitKats anytime soon!
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In Summary
The pandemic has significantly impacted many women’s PMS, causing heightened emotional and physical symptoms. As we navigate these challenging times, it’s crucial to recognize the stressors affecting our bodies and seek ways to manage them effectively. From dietary changes to self-care practices, finding balance is more important than ever.