The technical definition of menstruation is when a woman’s uterus sheds its lining if there isn’t a baby to nurture. This leads to the loss of menstrual fluid, which contains various fluids, blood, and uterine tissue.
While hormones do trigger these physical symptoms, it is only possible to experience menstrual bleeding (a period) if the woman has a uterus and ovaries. The mental and emotional symptoms of menstruation or PMS, however, can be experienced by anyone who has a certain level of hormones like estrogen or progesterone. In transgender women, these hormones grow breast tissue, redistribute fat to other body areas, and help prevent hair loss and male pattern baldness.
PMS Navigation Tips For Trans Women
Symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) can be hard to diagnose. Knowing what to expect can help you figure out if PMS is causing your issues.
Once you start hormone replacement therapy, you may start to notice a pattern of any depression or anxiety spikes you get throughout the month. Some transwomen can be extremely sensitive to HRT. Estrogen and progesterone can lead to mental and emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, irritability, and mood swings. Other symptoms include physical changes, like bloating, headaches, and tender chest tissue. You may also notice fatigue and that you are sleeping more or less than usual. It won’t hang on for long. These symptoms will clear up after a week or so.
PMS Care
Pampering yourself can go a long way toward making you feel less anxious and depressed about things when you’re PMSing. A bubble bath or a nice massage can be enough for most women; however, if your stress levels are high, you may need a little more than an hour or two of alone time or your favorite flavor of coffee drink to get you through.
Though people often say they’re indulging in a day of self-care, they rarely take time away from their jobs, daily life, and–most importantly–electronic devices. Instead, they might treat themselves to an expensive purchase, like that nice pair of shoes they swore they wouldn’t buy. But if you’re really struggling emotionally, you’ll need to take self-care seriously. Try staying off social media when your emotions are at their most intense. This simple move can help you increase the happy hormones in your brain. Add in a little time in the sun to get that vitamin D surging, plus some extra rest, and you’ll feel good before you know it.
Supporting Trans Women Through Their PMS Symptoms
It’s good for trans women to remember that they are not alone when they experience PMS symptoms. Millions of women across the globe deal with the physical and mental realities of PMS. In fact, common symptoms can really create a connection between women. Knowing that someone else is in the same situation and going through the same tough time that you are can help you feel better. Surround yourself with positive people who care about you. Don’t forget to be one of those people as well. It’s important to support your friends and family through their emotionally rough times, whatever the cause may be.
Conclusion
These tips will help transgender women recognize and navigate the emotional, mental, and physical symptoms of PMS. With support and encouragement, you can manage your symptoms. Don’t forget: a little self-care goes a long way toward making you feel better sooner.
