Even though they are both part of the menstrual cycle, PMS and menstruation are different in terms of appearance, symptoms, and how to deal with them. PMS orPremenstrual Syndrome is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms that occur 1-2 weeks before menstruation. And PMS symptoms can vary from woman to woman. Whereas menstruation is a shedding process of the lining of the uterus of an unfertilized egg. Menstruation is usually marked by bloody discharge from the vagina for several days.

Well, nowHow to differentiate between PMS and menstruation? Come on, find out the differences in the following article.

What is the Difference Between PMS and Menstruation?

Many people often mistake PMS and menstruation for the same thing. In fact, both are different conditions. PMS, or Premenstrual Syndrome, is a group of physical and psychological symptoms experienced by women before menstruation. On the other hand, menstruation is the menstrual process itself.

Menstruation, or menstruation, is normal vaginal bleeding that occurs every month as part of a woman's reproductive cycle. Every month, a woman's body prepares for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the uterine lining will shed and exit the body through the vagina in the form of blood and tissue.

So, PMS is a group of symptoms that appear before menstruation, while menstruation is the process of shedding the lining of the uterus that comes out of the body in the form of blood.

Differences in Symptoms During PMS and Menstruation

The symptoms of PMS are different from the symptoms of menstruation itself, you know. As for gejala PMS generally in the form of:

• Stomach cramps
• Swollen and painful breasts
• Headache
• Nauseous
• Acne appears
• Changes in appetite
• Mood changes (irritability, sadness, anxiety, or depression)
• Weak
• Hard to sleep
• Bloated stomach
• Muscle ache
• Indigestion
• It's easy to forget
• Get tired quickly
• Difficulty focusing

The severity of PMS can vary for each woman, depending on age, lifestyle, health history and psychological condition.

Whereas menstrual symptoms what is generally felt is:

• Stomach cramps
• Low back pain
• Headache/dizziness
• Nauseous
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Mood swings
• Flatulence
• Get tired quickly
• Vaginal bleeding of varying volume

Just like PMS, the severity of menstruation can also vary. In fact, some women do not feel menstrual symptoms at all. Menstruation generally lasts 3-7 days.

Understanding the differences between PMS symptoms and menstruation can help you manage your condition better. If you feel that the symptoms are interfering with your activities, consult a doctor to get the right solution.

How to Relieve Pain During PMS and Menstruation

Although there are differences between PMS and menstruation, both conditions have similar treatments because the symptoms are often similar.

Some steps you can take to reduce pain during PMS and menstruation include:

• Take a shower with warm water.
• Make sure to get enough rest.
• Eat healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
• Do exercise for 30 minutes every day.
• Increase calcium intake.
• Try to avoid stress and depression.
• Limit consumption of caffeine, alcohol and salt.
• Use a warm compress on the painful stomach.
• If the pain is unbearable, you can take relievers such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, or other types of NSAIDs.

PMS and menstrual symptoms generally disappear by themselves after finishing menstruation. Most people do not need medical help or take special medications.However, if you experience severe symptoms or interfere with your daily activities, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.

Reference:

https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/premenstrual-syndrome-pms