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A Vicious Cycle – Menstrual Cramps Can Put a Damper
on Sex Premenstrual
syndrome, also called PMS, is real. It affects the quality of life for millions
of women, yet too many women do not realize there are ways to battle this
problem. Begin by identifying the specific symptoms you experience. Typical
symptoms include fatigue, depression, irritability, angry outbursts, cravings
for sweet and/or salty foods, headache, abdominal bloating, anxiety, confusion,
difficulty with concentration and/or memory, swollen hands or feet, tender
breasts and tearfulness. These are all normal and due to the effects of the
progesterone in your system. Next, keep a log of the dates you experience
certain symptoms. These charts will enable you to predict the onset of your
internal warfare and help you plan ahead for its effects. Plan
positive sexual times for you and your husband for the two weeks leading up to
your symptoms. Depending on the severity of your PMS, plan for the type of
sexual encounter that would meet your needs and help relieve your stress during
that difficult time. During those difficult two weeks, make time in your
schedule for extra rest. Schedule a walk and talk time together to occur before
your sexual time. Begin your actual physical time with a relaxing bubble bath
or a warm shower. Planning for your PMS will reduce the damage to your sex life
and increase your partner’s understanding. It
might also be possible to treat your PMS. Nutritionists and medical researchers
recommend avoiding fat, sodium, alcohol and caffeine, increasing fresh fruits
and vegetables, legumes and whole grains, and drinking eight to ten glasses of
water a day. Some nutritionists recommend avoiding red meats and dairy products
and including a daily intake of safflower oil and Evening Primrose Oil. In
addition, aerobic exercise is necessary. Exercise is thought to stimulate the
release of ankephalins and endorphins, neurotransmitters responsible for a person's
sense of well being. They need to be elevated in women who have PMS. Some
doctors encourage taking a vitamin or mineral supplement. After taking supplements for a month or two,
many women find that it relieves mid to moderate symptoms. Two supplements that
are often found to be effective are Optivite and Theraids, which are easily
found at health food stores. If these measures do not relieve your symptoms
enough to boost your sexual relationship, seek further medical help.
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