Podcast PTA FUNK: Einfach Englisch lernen – Menstrual Disorders

Dialogue

Customer: I was wondering if you could help me. The days before my period are starting to get me down.

PTA: Can you explain in detail what you’re experiencing?

Customer: I’ve always had ups and downs during my menstrual cycle but they’re getting a lot worse. I get headaches, I feel exhausted, I crave chocolate or crisps. Mood swings make me irritable and aggressive towards colleagues. I’d hate to lose their respect.

PTA: That’s understandable. Most women get one or two signs of premenstrual syndrome or PMS, but when just getting through the day becomes a problem, a clear diagnosis is needed. I would recommend making an appointment with your gynaecologist to clarify whether this really is PMS or whether another condition is causing your symptoms. Some thyroid disorders for example have similar indications as do some forms of depression.

Customer: I see. Is there anything I can do in the meantime?

PTA: Yes, lifestyle measures can help to reduce the symptoms. Regular moderate exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming may improve both physical discomfort and moodiness. Some women find yoga or other relaxation techniques helpful. A balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, vegetables, fruit and pulses is advisable. You may also want to reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol and salty foods. If you smoke, giving up would be beneficial for your general health.

Customer: I do drink coffee and enjoy a glass of wine now and again and I smoke. I’ll try to make some changes. Is there anything I could take?

PTA: There are some vitamins and minerals that relieve various PMS problems. A daily 300 mg dose of magnesium can be considered. Vitamin B6 is also useful, however the recommended dose should not be exceeded as long-term intake can cause nerve damage.

Customer: Are there any herbal remedies?

PTA: Chasteberry, also known as monk’s pepper is one of the herbal options used for PMS, particularly for breast tenderness and mood-related symptoms. It needs to be taken regularly and it may take several weeks to show an effect. Shepherd’s purse, a mustard family plant, is traditionally used for heavy menstrual bleeding rather than the typical PMS symptoms. I would only recommend it if heavy bleeding is also an issue and preferably after medical assessment.

Customer: And if none of these options help?

PTA: Then you should definitely discuss everything in detail with your gynaecologist. Depending on the diagnosis and severity, there are other forms of treatment. Try keeping a calendar record of your physical and psychological symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles. There are several standardized instruments, which have been developed especially for this purpose. They are available as digital apps or as printouts and help to establish predictable recurrences likely to disrupt normal function. I’ll show you an example.

Customer: Thank you, that’s very kind. 

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