Since last summer, my menstrual cycle has been unpredictable, arriving every two to three weeks. The intensity is overwhelming, and it feels like I have no control over my body or emotions. It all begins with a sudden headache (a new experience for me), followed by uncomfortable constipation, and then painful cramps the next morning—something I hadn’t experienced for nearly three years thanks to my IUD.
But the physical discomfort pales in comparison to the mental anguish. Some days, I feel submerged, losing grip on my emotions and composure. For instance, during a recent grocery trip, the soaring prices sent me into a spiral of despair while battling severe PMS. When I returned home, my children questioned why I didn’t purchase everything on the list. I explained that I couldn’t justify spending so much on a single bag of cookies or the premium steak they desired. Instead, I opted for a less expensive cut and planned to marinate it. Carrying in the bags, I reached my breaking point, causing my kids to scatter like startled fish.
I’m not the only one feeling the pandemic’s effects. My partner has expressed that I often vent my frustrations on him, making him feel like a punching bag. A friend of mine, who’s the same age, revealed she’s been feeling off since last fall and has lost the motivation to do anything. Her periods and mood swings have also intensified. “I bled for over a week last month,” she confessed during a tearful call.
If you’re experiencing a surge in PMS symptoms during the pandemic, you’re definitely not alone; it’s not just in your head. Research indicates that women are more affected by the current crisis, facing heightened worries about finances and the health of loved ones compared to men, according to KFF. The data shows that nearly 40% of women and 30% of men report that pandemic-related stress has impacted their mental health, with women being more likely to receive diagnoses of anxiety and depression. Social distancing measures have further amplified feelings of isolation and distress for everyone.
Moreover, women have borne more of the changes brought about by the pandemic. An alarming 865,000 women exited the U.S. workforce in September alone—four times the number of men. This means many women are now juggling responsibilities at home, from homeschooling to managing household dynamics, with limited avenues for relief as most outlets are no longer available.
The stress we’re under takes a toll on our hormones, leading to more pronounced PMS symptoms. NBC News highlights that PMS can manifest as emotional instability, psychological distress, and physical discomfort. Simply put, higher stress levels equate to worse PMS experiences. Welcome to the era of pandemic PMS.
PMS is influenced by stress hormones and insulin, including estrogen and progesterone. An increase in anxiety triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, which can lead to heightened cravings for sugar and increased appetite. The constant fear surrounding the virus and the uncertainty of a global pandemic undoubtedly contribute to elevated stress levels, as noted by Dr. Christiane Northrup.
Despite my attempts to find relief through over-the-counter remedies and comfort foods, nothing seems to alleviate the PMS I’ve been facing this past year. It’s tempting to indulge in salty snacks or eat Nutella straight from the jar to cope with the emotional turmoil. However, holistic nutritionist and women’s health coach Katie Bressack suggests incorporating foods rich in healthy fats and protein, like salmon, olive oil, and avocados, to support brain function and enhance clarity.
If your menstrual cycle feels more intense than ever, know that it’s a normal response to the additional stress we are all facing. While this knowledge may not solve everything, it can help you understand the cause. Small daily practices to manage stress and incorporating stress-relieving foods can certainly make a difference. However, I’m not about to give up fries or KitKats anytime soon; I need some indulgence to navigate this chaos.
For more insights, check out this article on Fertility Pioneers or visit Cryobaby’s home insemination kit for authoritative information on this topic. Additionally, Facts About Fertility provides valuable resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, if your PMS has intensified during the pandemic, you are not alone. Many women are grappling with similar issues due to increased stress and anxiety. Understanding the connection between stress and hormonal changes can help you manage your symptoms, and incorporating healthy foods into your diet may provide some relief.
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