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Lesser-known effects of PMS
Summary
PMS does not just affect your body - it can touch every part of your life, from relationships and social plans to productivity and work-life balance. This article explores the lesser-known effects of PMS and PMDD, and the first steps toward addressing them. You are far from alone.
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🌿 Key takeaways
The lesser-known effects of PMS and PMDD: what to know
- Nearly half of all people with PMS report that it affects their social life and family relationships
- 73% of people with periods struggle to work the way they would like to because of period-related symptoms
- Evelyn's own research shows 56% of people have taken time off work or school because of symptoms - but 71% of them did not disclose PMS or PMDD as the reason
- People with moderate to severe PMS or PMDD report poorer work-life balance, higher perceived work demands, and less control over their work
- Understanding these effects is the first step - treatment options, workplace adjustments, and open conversations can all make a meaningful difference
More strained relationships
It is no surprise that a monthly cycle of symptoms can take a toll on relationships. Nearly half of all people experiencing PMS report that the condition affects their socialising and family relationships - whether that is turning down a night out with friends, or withdrawing from a partner.
The good news is that a growing awareness of premenstrual disorders means there are more resources than ever to support you and those close to you. The best place to start is honest conversation. There is no right or wrong way to begin, but being open about what you are going through helps the people you care about understand and offer better support.
🌿 Read more: Evelyn's Guide to PMS, PMDD and relationships
Lower productivity
According to one study, 73% of people with periods struggle to work the way they would like to because of period-related symptoms including low energy, concentration difficulties, pain, and anxiety. Other research has demonstrated a correlation between PMS and lower performance, reduced productivity, and higher rates of absence from work.
🧪 What the research shows: Evelyn's own research found that 56% of people have taken time off work or school because of PMS or PMDD symptoms - but 71% of them did not disclose premenstrual symptoms as the reason.
Most people who experience PMS or PMDD at work find that lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference, even if some cyclical symptoms remain. Regular exercise has been shown to minimise symptoms significantly. Reducing stress also has a positive impact, with activities such as yoga or meditation helping to regulate the nervous system. If you are experiencing extreme stress at work, raising this with your manager or HR team is always a reasonable step.
Poor work-life balance
Research has found that people with moderate to severe PMS or PMDD often report poorer work-life balance, higher perceived work demands, and less control over their work. One study found that symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, self-doubt, paranoia, fatigue, tearfulness, heightened sensitivity to environment and people, and difficulty with social interaction led to both presenteeism and absenteeism at work. After symptoms eased, participants reported feelings of guilt and engaged in over-compensatory behaviours such as working longer hours and taking work home during the rest of the cycle.
⚠️ Worth noting: If you decide to discuss how PMS or PMDD is affecting your work-life balance with your employer, it can help to prepare ahead of time. Think about what questions your manager is likely to ask, how you would respond, and what adjustments - such as reduced hours, remote working, or increased flexibility - might help you most. The more prepared you are, the more likely the conversation will lead to positive change.
Final thoughts
If PMS or PMDD is significantly affecting your daily life, speaking to your GP is a good first step. Your GP might suggest lifestyle changes, the combined oral contraceptive pill, or SSRIs - a type of antidepressant that provides effective symptom relief for up to 70% of people with PMDD.
Evelyn's Supplement Routine offers a clinically backed, hormone-free way to support the systems that PMS and PMDD affect most - helping you feel more balanced, day to day and across your cycle.
Further reading
- Evelyn's Guide to PMS, PMDD and seeing the GP
- Evelyn's Guide to PMS, PMDD and relationships
- Evelyn's Guide to PMS, PMDD and your career: how to make it work
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional about any health concerns.
