Impact of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) on Romantic Relationships and Useful Advice

Impact of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome on Relationships and Useful Advice

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are conditions that can cause a range of emotional and physical symptoms in individuals. These conditions, which often occur a week or two before a period, can impact not only the person experiencing them but also their relationships.

PMS symptoms include fatigue, irritability, changes in mood, decreased sex drive, tender breasts, bloating, and cramping. PMDD, a more severe form, can also include psychological symptoms like severe irritability, a sense of hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts.

Research suggests that negative PMS experiences can impact a couple's relationship satisfaction. A 2008 study found that the fear that the partner would not take PMS experiences seriously is one reason why women, particularly those in a heterosexual relationship, may hesitate to give PMS as an explanation for a negative change to mood and behavior.

Effective communication between partners can help reduce PMS distress. Cis men, however, were found in a 2013 study to be unable to understand the premenstrual situation and often suspected that the signs and symptoms reported by their partners were imaginary or dismissed and ignored. Understanding the woman's experience and how it differs from that of a cis man can help men more readily adapt to the woman's premenstrual changes.

Transgender individuals experiencing PMS or PMDD may not always receive the support they need. Trans men who were assigned female at birth can experience both PMS and PMDD. Research has not found any evidence that testosterone hormone therapy causes a worsening of mental health conditions in trans men.

In lesbian partnerships and relationships between partners who both have an ovary or ovaries, the time during which PMS occurs is reported to be more supportive and understanding. On the other hand, women who are straight and experiencing symptoms of PMS show a decrease in shared good experiences with their cis male partner and an increase in relationship conflict during the last week of the cycle.

Couples-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is proven to have a greater positive impact on coping behavior, perception of the relationship, and support. Social support from friends or your community may also help some people better cope with PMS symptoms. A partner can show support to the person experiencing PMS by giving them emotional and physical space when needed.

In Germany, specialized treatment for PMS and PMDD, including counseling and therapy for couples, is typically offered by gynecologists (Gynekologen) and psychotherapeutic specialists. Approaches include hormonal treatments, medication, psychotherapeutic therapy, and phytopharmaceuticals like Vitex agnus-castus (monk's pepper), with some practitioners also providing couple counseling related to these disorders.

It's important to remember that PMS and PMDD can affect anyone who still has an ovary/ovaries, including trans women, trans men, and nonbinary and gender-expansive individuals. Interpretations of these conditions may vary across different racial and ethnic groups, highlighting the need for cultural sensitivity and understanding.

In conclusion, understanding and managing PMS and PMDD requires open communication, empathy, and support from partners and communities. With the right approach, it's possible to navigate these conditions and maintain healthy, supportive relationships.