Why Your Mood Changes Before Your Period — And What You Can Actually D

PMS is real, it is common, and it is not just 'in your head'. Here is what is happening in your body — and how to feel more like yourself again.

If you find yourself feeling inexplicably tearful on a Wednesday, snapping at everyone around you by Thursday, and then wondering what on earth came over you once your period arrives — you are not alone, and you are not overreacting.

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, affects the vast majority of women at some point in their lives. Yet for something so common, it is still routinely dismissed, misunderstood, or met with an eye roll. At MUVA, we do not think that is good enough. So here is what is actually going on.

What Causes PMS?

PMS is triggered by the hormonal shifts that happen in the second half of your cycle — the luteal phase, which runs from ovulation to the first day of your period.

After ovulation, oestrogen drops and progesterone rises. If the egg is not fertilised, both hormones fall sharply in the days before your period. This hormonal rollercoaster affects serotonin — your brain's mood-regulating neurotransmitter — which is why the emotional symptoms of PMS can feel so pronounced.

Common PMS symptoms include irritability, anxiety, low mood, fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and disrupted sleep. If your symptoms are severely impacting your daily life, this may be PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) — speak to your GP.

Why Some Women Feel It More Than Others

PMS is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness. Research suggests that some women are simply more sensitive to the hormonal changes that happen in the luteal phase. Lifestyle factors — including stress, sleep deprivation, diet, and caffeine intake — can also amplify symptoms significantly.

Genetics plays a role too. If your mother or sister experienced significant PMS, you are more likely to as well.

What You Can Do: Practical Support That Actually Works

There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there is plenty of evidence behind the following approaches:

– Track your cycle. Understanding the pattern of your symptoms is the first step. A period tracking app can help you anticipate difficult days and plan around them.

– Support your nutrition. Magnesium has strong evidence for reducing PMS symptoms including mood changes and bloating. Vitamin B6 is also commonly recommended. Aim to reduce refined sugar and alcohol during your luteal phase, as both can worsen mood instability.

– Move your body — gently. Moderate exercise helps regulate serotonin and reduce bloating. A walk, a yoga class, or a swim can make a meaningful difference.

– Prioritise sleep. Progesterone affects sleep quality, and tiredness dramatically worsens emotional symptoms. Try to protect a consistent sleep routine in the week before your period.

– Consider targeted supplements. Products formulated with magnesium, B6, and adaptogenic herbs such as chasteberry have shown promise in clinical research for PMS relief.

When to Seek Support

If PMS is regularly interfering with your work, relationships, or ability to function, please speak to your doctor. PMDD is a recognised medical condition and is treatable. You do not have to white-knuckle through it every month.

At MUVA, we have curated a selection of products designed to support you through PMS — from supplements to comfort essentials — because you deserve more than just getting through it.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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A passionate wellness writer bringing you evidence-based health insights.