‘Period Flu’: Feeling Unwell Before Your Period

If you’re like most women, when you experience abdominal cramps, bloating and mood swings before your period, you recognize it as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). But what about lesser-known symptoms? If symptoms leading up to your period each month feel more like the beginning of seasonal influenza than PMS, it could be “period flu.” 

How Can You Get Period Flu?

Period flu isn’t influenza — in fact, it’s neither contagious nor a virus. Instead, the flu-like symptoms are thought to be due to hormone fluctuations during the menstrual cycle and may include: 

• Diarrhea 
• Fatigue 
• Headache  
• Muscle aches and joint pain 
• Nausea 

These symptoms can cross-reference between those typically associated with PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). 

How Do Hormones Cause Period Flu Symptoms?

Your menstrual cycle lasts roughly 28 days and has three phases, according to Merck Manual: 

• Follicular phase. Your period occurs in the first phase. 
• Ovulatory phase. Your ovaries release an egg release in this stage of your menstrual cycle.  
• Luteal phase. Your body releases hormones to help the uterus grow a nurturing environment in case of pregnancy. 

Your body produces different hormones or hormone-like chemicals in all menstrual cycle phases. The levels of the hormones and chemicals — including follicular-stimulating hormone, estrogen, luteinizing hormones, progesterone and prostaglandins — increase and decrease depending on the menstrual cycle phase. 

Changes in hormone and chemical levels during the luteal phase, particularly a drop in progesterone, are thought to be the catalyst for several symptoms of period flu, including a slight rise in body temperature and nausea. Progesterone may also contribute to insomnia and, subsequently, fatigue, according to a report published in the Journal of Sleep Disorders and Medicine. 

How Long Does the Period Flu Last?

Period flu symptoms can last up to two weeks, although some women begin to notice them a couple of days before their periods and feel better within a few days of getting their periods. 

Are There Treatments for Period Flu?

The same treatments used for PMS and PMDD symptoms can be effective for period flu discomfort. Such treatments include: 

• Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen to reduce body temperature and combat muscle pain and headaches 

Lifestyle choices may also help prevent or lessen period-related symptoms, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Try: 

• Getting daily exercise may help relieve fatigue and depression. Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity on most days of the week. 
• Eating a balanced diet may help alleviate PMS symptoms. Choose nutrient-dense, whole foods, including leafy greens and other vegetables, calcium-rich foods and lean protein sources. Avoid added salt, sugar and caffeine.  

Talk to a Provider

Find a gynecologist who can answer your questions and help manage your period-related symptoms.