How Stress Impacts Your PMS (+How to Cope)

What does PMS look like?

PMS, short for Premenstrual Syndrome, looks like mood swings, bloating, cramps, body ache and energy dips—all at once.

How stress worsens PMS

Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone trigger PMS. When stress heightens cortisol, it can block ovulation, delay your cycle, and intensify PMS symptoms.

The impact of stress on hormones

High cortisol pulls resources away from reproductive function, leading to irregular cycles, worsened cramps, or stress period bleeding.

Lifestyle changes to improve PMS

What you eat, how you move, and how you rest can tip the balance between a manageable cycle and one that feels unbearable.

Balanced nutrition for hormonal support

Complex carbs to stabilise blood sugar and ease mood shifts, healthy fats to calm inflammation, and magnesium-rich foods to soothe cramps.

Movement to ease PMS

Cardio exercises, yoga, strength training, flexibility-enhancing movements can help relax, de-bloat, and reduce fatigue.

Mind-body tools for stress and PMS

Mindfulness, breathing techniques, and meditation soothe cortisol spikes, while Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can aid with negativity and mood swings.

Alternative Therapies to manage Stress and PMS

Turn to acupuncture for balancing energy flow in the body, aromatherapy to improve mood, and meditation for stress relief.