7 Common Premenstrual Symptoms (and What They Mean for Your Hormones)

PMS isn’t just “part of being a woman.” In fact, severe premenstrual symptoms may point to deeper hormone imbalances that can—and should—be addressed.

For many South African women, navigating symptoms like irritability, breast tenderness, and cravings is a monthly struggle. But relief is possible when you work with your body, not against it.

Here are 7 premenstrual symptoms to look out for, plus what they may be telling you:

1. Mood Swings and Irritability

One of the most common premenstrual symptoms is feeling emotionally volatile—snapping, crying, or withdrawing without clear reason. This is usually tied to low progesterone or poor estrogen detox.

2. Breast Tenderness or Swelling

If your breasts become painful or enlarged before your period, it may be due to excess estrogen, also known as estrogen dominance.

3. Cravings for Sugar or Salt

Your body may be trying to self-soothe with food if your serotonin or blood sugar levels dip in the luteal phase. Magnesium deficiency and poor adrenal health also play a role.

4. Bloating or Water Retention

This is often related to hormonal shifts that affect electrolyte balance and digestive movement. It may also be a sign of inflammation.

5. Fatigue and Brain Fog

If your energy drops and your mind feels cloudy before your period, this could be a mix of low progesterone, poor sleep, and cortisol imbalance.

6. Acne or Skin Flare-Ups

Hormonal breakouts (usually around the chin or jaw) often signal androgen excess or inefficient liver detox of estrogen and testosterone.

7. Sleep Disturbances

If you struggle to fall asleep or wake up anxious in the week before your period, it may be due to low melatonin or poor cortisol regulation.

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Functional Support for PMS Relief in South Africa

You don’t need to suffer every month. At Ask Dr Olz, we focus on addressing root hormonal imbalances—using evidence-based, South Africa-available supplements to restore balance naturally.

Chasteberry Plus

Ultra Potent-C 1000

Magnesium Glycinate

OmegaGenics® EPA-DHA 720

Other Helpful Supplements for PMS Relief in South Africa

• EstroFactors – supports healthy estrogen metabolism
• Meta I 3 C – promotes hormone detox via the liver
• Cal Apatite with Magnesium – for cramps and bone health

All products are available through Ask Dr Olz, with delivery across South Africa.

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Monthly Symptoms Are a Message—Let’s Decode Them

Your body is trying to tell you something. Let’s listen. With the right plan, you can feel calm, clear, and in control all month long.

👉 Shop PMS Relief Supplements Now
👉 Or Book a virtual consult with Dr. Olz for a custom hormone and PMS protocol, tailored to South African women.

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