Pre-Ovulatory Syndrome (POS) is a little-known phase of the menstrual cycle. It is a set of physical and emotional symptoms that appear before or during ovulation. In this article, we'll define what OPS is, the hormones involved, the impact on daily life, and methods for alleviating the symptoms.
What is OPS?
Definition of OPS
OPS corresponds to a period of hormonal transition when the body produces large quantities of estrogen in preparation for ovulation. Progesterone levels are still low at this time, causing a hormonal imbalance. This imbalance leads to symptoms similar to Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), but which occur before ovulation.
The most common symptoms of PMS
Symptoms vary in intensity and duration from one woman to another, but generally disappear as ovulation approaches.
- Mild abdominal pain or cramps, which may also last during ovulation
- Bloating a sign of disturbed transit
- Breast tenderness breasts that are harder than usual
- Some women suffer from migraines and headaches
- It is possible to feel a certain irritability, anxiety
- slight weight gain due to water retention
- Some women experience an increase in libido.
The timing of OPS in the menstrual cycle
OPS generally occurs between days 7 and 14 of the menstrual cycle. For women with a 28-day cycle, symptoms usually appear between days 7 and 10.
The hormones involved in OPS
It's all about hormones! Naturopaths like Laurène Sindicic explain the relationship between symptoms and hormones perfectly. If symptoms are troubling you, always consult a health professional.
Estrogen and OPS
During the follicular phase of the cycle, estrogen levels gradually increase in preparation for ovulation. They stimulate the growth of the endometrium and the development of follicles in the ovaries.
Progesterone and OPS
Prior to ovulation, progesterone remains at a low level. It is this imbalance between rising estrogen and low progesterone that causes the symptoms of OPS. Progesterone only begins to rise significantly after ovulation.
The impact of OPS on daily life
The hormonal variations associated with OPS can have a major impact on women's lives:
- Mood swings and irritability Mood swings and irritability: this can affect personal and professional relationships.
- Fatigue Lower energy levels can reduce productivity and the desire to participate in social activities.
- Physical sensitivity Breast pain or bloating can affect self-esteem.
- Lack of concentration The ability to concentrate on important tasks may be affected.
Recognizing that these symptoms are linked to hormonal imbalance is essential to managing them better.
How can I relieve symptoms of pre-ovulatory syndrome?
The hormonal variations associated with P.O.S. can have major repercussions on women's lives:
- Weakened personal and professional relationships Emotional fluctuations can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings in day-to-day interactions.
- Reduced productivity Fatigue caused by OPS can affect the ability to accomplish tasks at work or at home.
- Reduced self-confidence Body sensitivity, such as the perception of bloating or physical changes, can alter self-image and self-esteem.
- Difficulty concentrating Difficulty concentrating: OPS can make it more difficult to concentrate, making it harder to make decisions or carry out activities that require attention.
Symptoms of OPS, like those of PMS or menstruation, are linked to hormonal changes, which can help you come to terms with them and find ways to alleviate them.
Regular physical activity
Practising a sport suited to your physical condition releases endorphins, which act as natural anti-stress agents. For example, it has been proven that 30 minutes of walking a day can help relieve symptoms.
Try relaxation techniques
Yoga, meditation and deep breathing can reduce anxiety and help manage the emotions associated with OPS.
Use herbal remedies and food supplements
- The chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a plant renowned for its action on hormone regulation. It helps balance estrogen and progesterone levels. Regular use can help to reduce symptoms of OPSsymptoms, particularly mood swings and breast tenderness.
- The magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a key role in stress management and helps to reduce fatigue. Combined with vitamin B6it acts on the nervous system to reduce irritability and anxiety associated with OPS. This combination is particularly effective in soothing emotional symptoms.
- Other medicinal plants, such asalchemilla and valerian can also bring relief. Alchemilla has antispasmodic properties which help relieve abdominal pain, while valerian is known for its calming effectsValerian is known for its calming effects, helping to manage stress and sleep disorders.
- Finally omega-3found in fish or flaxseed oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain pain and improve mood. By incorporating these plants and dietary supplements into your daily routine, you can take natural and effective action to alleviate the symptoms of OPS.
Symptothermy
Visit symptothermy is a method of monitoring the menstrual and ovulatory cycles. The method is based on the observation of bodily signs such as basal body temperaturetemperature cervical mucus and cervical cervical variations. With precise, regular monitoring, every woman is able to listen to her body and precisely identify the different phases of her cycleincluding the period when OPS is likely to be more intense. In this way, each woman can adapt her lifestyle.
At Eliawhat's interesting about symptothermy is that it gives her a sense of control and sense of control and understanding of her bodywhich helps to reduce the anxiety and stress associated with OPS. This in-depth knowledge of your cycle allows you to better manage hormonal fluctuations.
OPS is as little known as PMS. However, it affects many women. By understanding hormonal variations and adapting your lifestyle, you can better anticipate and manage symptoms.
Sources :
- Sindicic, Laurène (2020). Symptothermia and female cycles.
- Gervais, P. (2019). Understanding premenstrual symptoms. Paris : Éditions Femmes & Santé.
- Association Française pour le Suivi du Cycle Féminin (AFSCF). (2021). "The different stages of the menstrual cycle".
