Dear deerhunter,

Many girls and women have uncomfortable and distracting menstrual cramps during their periods.

Some girls and women — from 20-50 percent — have a physical or emotional discomfort that is known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) about a week before menstruating, or during the first few days of menstruation. Symptoms of PMS include depression and other mood changes, tender breasts, appetite changes, irritability, headaches, backaches, insomnia, sweating, difficult breathing, and fluid retention. PMS is more common in older women.

Many girls find that exercising and getting plenty of sleep can help minimize the symptoms of menstrual cramping or PMS.

Some women, by the way, report positive premenstrual changes, including increased creativity, energy, and sexual desire.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.