When you get your first period, it may seem to show up rather unexpectedly. However, over time you’ll understand your body better and sense a pattern when your period is approaching. Mood swings and physical changes are the most obvious signs, which start around a week or two before you get your period and end 3-4 days after the bleeding begins. This is also knows as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and some women experience more severe PMS symptoms than others. Don’t worry girls, soon you will learn how to identify these symptoms and be absolutely prepared for your period before it comes knocking on your door!

PMS is caused due to hormonal fluctuation and includes the following symptoms:

1. Break outs - Women are generally more prone to acne than men due to hormonal imbalance. Almost all women (even if they have great skin) tend to break out right before their periods – this kind of acne is called cyclical acne. This is caused due to the production of excess sebum (or oil) as a result of rising hormone levels, which clogs pores causing zits/blemishes/pimples. These are most commonly found on the jawline or chin.
2. Cramps - Cramping is the most common sign of PMS. They occur in the pelvic area (below your belly button) right before your period and last for 2-3 days after you start bleeding - unlike the other PMS symptoms, which show up 1-2 weeks before your period.
3. Mood Swings - Mood swings are caused due to hormonal imbalance and can make you extremely irritable and impatient. It’s also normal to have unprovoked crying spells or anger bouts. You can also tend to feel slightly depressed or experience anxiety but it usually passes once your period starts. So don’t worry girls, blame it on the hormones and in time, you will learn how to control this unexpected emotional rollercoaster.
4. Lower-back/thigh pain - Sometimes, along with cramping in the lower belly, women experience pain in their lower back or thighs – this is because prostaglandins, which are natural chemicals that line the uterus cause the contractions, which can be felt in these areas as well.
5. Headaches - Headaches are caused due to changes in estrogen levels. Women who are prone to migraines especially, are prone to get headaches before their periods.
6. Improper bowel movement - It is common for women to experience constipation or diarrhea when their period is approaching. Yes girls, your digestive system can go to extremes right before your period so don’t panic!
7. Difficulty sleeping - PMS is often accompanied by fatigue. Hormonal imbalance also disrupts your natural sleep cycle and hence, makes you feel more tired than usual, as you don’t always get restful sleep. Fluctuation of your estrogen and progesterone can also lead to higher body temperature and possible hot flushes, which don’t help the body relax as easily.
8. Bloating - Have you ever noticed your face feeling extra puffy before your period? This is caused due to water retention owed to your hormones. You can fix this problem by exercising regularly, reducing salt consumption and eating more fruits.
9. Sore breasts - If your breasts hurt and feel heavier, swollen or tender - don’t worry, it’s normal! This symptom is called cyclical breast pain caused due to fluctuation of estrogen, progesterone and prolactin (the breastfeeding hormone). This symptom usually starts after ovulation and will pass a couple of days after you start bleeding.

Also Read:

• 8 Things You Should Know About Periods
• 5 Home Remedies To Cure Period Cramps