Common Period Symptoms

Following the monthly production and release of an egg by one of your ovaries, your period occurs when your body sheds the unfertilized egg and the thickened lining of your uterus. The discharge of blood and tissue lasts 3 to 5 days for most women and is accompanied by a variety of common symptoms.

Premenstrual Syndrome

• Statistics from the American Pregnancy Association show that in the days leading up to their period, approximately 85 percent of women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is characterized by period-like symptoms such as mood swings, irritability and changes in appetite.

Cramps

• Contractions of your uterus that occur during your period cause cramps that can range from mildly uncomfortable to severely painful. You can relieve this pain with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or naproxen.

Headaches

• An increase in headaches and fatigue frequently accompany a period.

Breast Tenderness

• Breast tenderness or soreness is a common symptom for many women during their period, as well as in the days leading up to their menstruation.

Bloating

• In the first days of your period, you may notice that your pants are a little tighter than usual, an indication of bloating from water retention that commonly occurs during menstruation.