Due to false assumptions and lack of factual information, there are several myths about PMS that people think maybe true. To provide rational explanation for each, here are some of the most common misconceptions and beliefs about PMS.

1. Some people think that PMS is a regular part of a woman’s menstrual cycle.

The PMS symptoms are not occurring at the same time of the month as the women’s menstrual cycle. Generally once the women’s menstrual cycle begins the PMS symptoms fade. PMS is very common but not all women suffer from this condition. There are some women who don’t suffer from any discomfort during their menstrual cycle, while other women experience a great deal of pain and anxiety for a few days every month. It is also true to say that some women suffer discomfort due to PMS, and also suffer during their monthly menstrual cycle period too.

2. Symptoms of PMS cannot be improved upon.

Health professionals frequently offer suggestions to alleviate or reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. With a change of diet and regular intake of vitamin & mineral supplements, women suffering from PMS can feel a lot better. Also regular exercise will help release your feel good hormones and we can always benefit from more of these.

3. PMS is infectious.

PMS symptoms occur because of imbalances in a woman’s body. It is nothing to do with anyone else. Premenstrual syndrome is definitely not contagious.

4. Women who suffer from PMS are always moody.

Not all women who experience PMS have mood swings. Sudden changes in your moods during PMS may also be attributed to other factors such as stress, headaches, pain and discomfort.

5. Women with PMS are difficult to deal with and are irrational most of the time.

This is a total myth. With or without premenstrual syndrome, women are logical and are responsible. PMS may highlight these symptoms but not all women display these PMS signs.

The symptoms of PMS are treatable. During a bout of PMS, make a list of all the symptoms that you are experiencing. Remember that these symptoms may vary from one period to another. To properly address your discomfort, seek professional advice from a health care professional. Here are some tips that you may wish to follow to alleviate your PMS symptoms.

1. Eat the right kinds of food. You may have heard this countless number of times from different health advisers, but this is true. What you eat affects your body functions and it contributes to your PMS symptoms. Include plenty of fruit and vegetables in your daily diet. Control your sugar and salt intake because high levels of it can aggravate PMS symptoms.

2. Remove some of your bad habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Cut down or cut out the amount of caffeine that you daily drink in tea, coffee for fizzy drinks. Exercise regularly, every other day for 30 to 60 minutes per session. Make breathing exercises a part of your daily routine. This can be by just doing deep breathing exercises, or either meditation. You can also change some of your exercise sessions to include Yoga, Tia Chi or Chi gong as these all incorporate a rhythmic breathing flow alongside the exercises, and the exercises are not energetic but merely slower rhythmic movements. Lifestyle changes will also take effort, time, and discipline, but once achieved, you will definitely find them rewarding.

3. Take vitamin & mineral supplements. Essential vitamins & minerals for women with PMS symptoms include vitamin B6, magnesium, calcium & zinc. These vitamins help control the normal functioning of your body system and aids discomfort brought about by PMS such as cramps and abdominal pain. When taking vitamin & mineral supplements, be sure to follow the right dosage recommendations.

4. Reduce stress. Although it is a normal part of a person’s life, if stress is managed properly it should not be disruptive or aggravating and annoying enough to cause disruption or health issues. It is the way you perceive and handle a situation that can be the deciding factor as to whether or not it will cause stress. Concentrate on what is happening at that moment, and don’t concern yourself with what happened yesterday or may happen tomorrow. Coping poorly with stress will only aggravate PMS symptoms. Practicing relaxation exercises such as meditation, music therapy or yoga will be of great help.

Pre-menstrual syndrome is a common problem, but it shouldn’t be. It is not an infection, and it is not a genetic disorder. It is quite easily overcome by taking control of your health, by following the aforementioned advice. You may also find that other health problems you may have will also go away.