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Answer
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) presents various symptoms in different women, such as severe physical discomfort, mental fogginess, and irritability. Water retention can vary from bothersome to painful, and cravings for carbohydrates only exacerbate the situation. Contrary to its name, “pre”-menstrual syndrome can extend into menstruation and even recur during ovulation. Some individuals may use PMS as an excuse for irritability, but the Bible encourages us to show love consistently. How can this be achieved? There are three key factors to consider in maintaining a positive attitude during PMS.
PMS is a Real Condition
First and foremost, it is essential to acknowledge that PMS is a genuine condition. For many years, medical professionals dismissed the existence of PMS, leaving women to manage the symptoms on their own. While the medical community has largely recognized the reality of PMS, gaining a comprehensive understanding remains an ongoing challenge.
When striving to control your demeanor during PMS, it is beneficial to anticipate its onset. By tracking your menstrual cycle, you can anticipate when symptoms are likely to manifest, especially if you have a regular cycle. Even for those with irregular cycles, monitoring symptoms can provide valuable insights. Symptoms often follow a pattern, so identifying the initial signs, such as bloating or increased body hair growth, can help you prepare for what lies ahead.
Given that PMS is a physical issue, many symptoms can be addressed through physical solutions or therapies. For instance, if you experience water retention, reducing salt intake in the week leading up to your period may be helpful. If sleep disturbances are a concern, following recommended steps for managing insomnia is crucial, along with evaluating your pain medication, as certain types like ibuprofen can disrupt sleep. Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking, can be beneficial for alleviating cramps, even though the inclination may be to rest. Avoiding simple carbohydrates, despite the challenge, could aid in managing digestive problems. In cases of joint pain or increased joint flexibility due to the release of relaxin, specific interventions may be necessary.Cut back on strenuous workouts to prevent injury. If you anticipate feeling foggy for a couple of days, handle detail-oriented administrative tasks in advance.
Another important aspect is allowing yourself grace. There are moments in life when we must persevere through challenges to accomplish tasks, but there are also instances when we are presented with the chance to slow down. It’s acceptable to embrace those moments.
Even during PMS, you are still accountable for your attitudes.
Managing pain and discomfort can positively impact your attitude (individuals in pain often exhibit irritability), but PMS also brings about mental and emotional hurdles that lifestyle changes alone cannot resolve. It’s crucial to understand that we are still responsible for our behavior. Jesus did not instruct us to love our neighbor solely based on our feelings. He set a powerful example by demonstrating grace and mercy even while enduring crucifixion. Nowhere in the Bible does it suggest that we can behave unkindly just because our hormones influence us in that direction. In fact, the Scripture assures us that we are not governed by our flesh if we depend on the Holy Spirit « This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. », (Galatians 5:16).
Acting contrary to your body’s natural inclinations is a component of spiritual growth. Pray for God’s guidance in your thoughts and actions, and be attentive to His provision of relief (James 1:5;Psalm 40:1-3). Engage with the Bible to reinforce the understanding that He surpasses your circumstances «Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. », (Psalm 119:9). Maintain connections with fellow Christians, even if it’s just one friend or your spouse who can offer support.
Eds and gently help you recognize when your attitude is declining «and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: », (Hebrews 10:24).
That fellowship part is crucial. During PMS, our emotions may try to persuade us that problems are larger than they really are. It’s easy to lose perspective. However, someone you trust can remind you of the truth, even if that truth is simply that you need to step back and consider the needs of others «Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. », (Ephesians 4:25). A friend is essential for this; Titus 2:5 instructs older women to teach younger women to be “sensible.” The Greek word is sophron, which means “of sound mind, curbing one’s desires and impulses, self-controlled.” PMS may make being “sensible” more challenging, but with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26;Philippians 4:13).
Know if/when you need medical help dealing with PMS
There are situations that can’t be controlled by at-home preventative measures. If the physical pain and mental and emotional symptoms significantly interfere with daily life, it’s time to see a doctor. This isn’t just a formality—PMS symptoms can be evidence of serious conditions such as cysts. Severe PMS is also a symptom of endometriosis, which can cause infertility. The emotional problems can be equally disturbing, leading to serious depression. Fortunately, there are medical treatments that can help.
One of the main treatments for PMS is to go on hormonal birth control. The use of hormonal birth control is controversial in Christian circles because it may prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg. For that reason, serious consideration is necessary.It is necessary to consult with your doctor before using it as a primary method of birth control. Its use for PMS treatment is well-documented, however. It is not wrong to take medication for medical issues; talk to your doctor and seek God’s guidance.
The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Jesus instructed us to love one another (Matthew 22:34-36), which means avoiding being irritable or rude (1 Corinthians 13:4—6). Love bears all things, endures all things, and never fails (13:7-8). These are convicting words for those whose bodies reveal their emotions frequently. However, the Bible assures assistance for those who seek God’s will “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”, (Philippians 4:13).
