Bonding of Partners during Premenstrual Syndrome
It is vitally true that women display some kind of unpredictable behaviour during the premenstrual period which is developed as a syndrome.
To put it simply, the truth is - It’s real. Premenstrual syndrome exists. She is not faking it. Let’s not judge her. Let’s just not be sympathetic towards her.
However, we can develop a strong bonding between partners by understanding the situation. Women who suffer from PMS knows, how frustrating and exhausting it can be and how it can impact their life. Woman, generally, hesitate to explain their feelings and emotions related to PMS, even to their life-partner because men are usually unaware of these particular traits. Partners in affectionate relationships experience less mental health issues and it can improve physical health. An emotional alignment through a hug, held hand, or a pat on the back is enough for the total recovery.
What is Premenstrual Syndrome?
Premenstrual Syndrome is a disorder of typical condition in females during regenerative age. PMS is a monthly experience of a woman, that may occur in a combination of physical, emotional and behavioural changes during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which is the time between ovulation and the start of menstruation. These changes are caused by the fluctuation of hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, and can range from mild to severe. PMS can affect some women’s day-to-day activities and also impact their relationship with partner.
Estrogenic levels that fluctuate during the luteal phase are responsible for the signs of mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue and depression. These signs and symptoms could be psychological and physical. Psychological symptoms such as anger, stress, anxiety, restlessness, sleeplessness, poor concentration, mood irritability without any reason, being fearful of all time, signs of depression, crying spells and sometimes they do not want to talk to people like social withdrawal etc. The physical symptoms are fatigue, generalized body pain, joint pains, abdominal pains, cramps, swelling all over the body, bloating, breast pain, headache and all these symptoms are real.
Effect of healing by care and love
The feeling of care and love has the greatest healing effect on any human being. These are vital emotions that grows or dies in direct proportion to one’s thinking pattern. If the partner gripes and criticizes, when she is suffering from PMS, it affects the sense and the spirit of hopelessness which can cause anxiety and stress. However, that negative mental habit is replaced by the positive characteristics in partner’s life - a small hug and hand holding - is usually enough to express care and love. A woman looks upon a relationship as a perpetual companionship, which explains the women’s craving for the partner’s attention and company. This reassures her and it strengthens a bond with feeling of love.
Relaxation and relief
Complete relaxation and rest are needed for a relief to women’s body while she is going through the period of PMS. When she is nervous, her body will experience some friction that may be painful and difficult. The very fear of that pain and discomfort restrict the normal flow of her lifestyle patterns and behaviours. The lesser the tension in the women, the easier it is for her reproductive organs cooperate with her in the accomplishment of her PMS. The partner may feel confused about the changes he sees in his woman’s behaviour. During this time period, a partner can show support using patience and acceptance and also in practical ways, like doing housework or giving emotional assurance. When she learns to stress-free, all bodily functions can operate better under such conditions and able to control her emotions.
Compassionate communication
It is a fact that compassionate communication between partners is crucial for navigating the emotional challenges and behavioural patterns. Men may potentially improve their sense of conversation and coping strategies for recognizing their partner’s feelings, emotions and behavioural changes associated with PMS.
Men’s perception and attitude should be positive and that creates an emotional support and better understanding which leads to strong bonding. Challenges can be overcome by emotional connection, characterized by empathy, fostering a sense of closeness and intimacy. The compassionate way of speaking and listening are crucial components that allows a couple to focusing on their needs and emotions rather than blaming and judgement.
Written By- Ms. RESHMA MATHEW - Consultant psychologist (Mindmaris Counsellors India Pvt)
