What is period flu and how can you treat it?

If this is a regular occurrence that happens in a cyclical pattern, you might be experiencing what is commonly referred to as ‘period flu’.

We have spoken to some women’s health professionals who have outlined some of the most common symptoms of period flu, and have explained some of the treatment options for it.

What is period flu?

“Period flu is the term used to describe flu-like symptoms that some women can experience during menstruation,” explains Dr Shirin Lakhani, intimate health and women’s health expert. “Many women report experiencing these symptoms on the days leading up to their period, as well as during.”

What are some common symptoms?

“Common symptoms include feeling unusually tired or lethargic, emotional changes (including irritability or sadness), abdominal cramps and muscle or joint pain,” says Dr Elise Dallas, GP at The London General Practice. “Some women may feel queasy or experience digestive issues and some may experience migraines or tension headaches.

“These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person and may be influenced by factors such as stress, diet and overall health.”

Who does it affect and when do the symptoms usually start?

“It can generally happen to anyone who is menstruating. Period flu is not a medical term and is more commonly used to describe a type of premenstrual syndrome (PMS),” says Lakhani. “PMS symptoms really can start at any point after ovulation, however it is most common to experience PMS symptoms a few days prior to the beginning of your period.

“For some, these symptoms may dissipate once your period begins, while others say they linger as you menstruate.”

What causes it?

“It is not fully understood why women experience these symptoms, but I would say that ‘period flu’, by description, is actually a condition on the spectrum of premenstrual syndromes, which is a recognised medical issue,” says Dr Susanna Unsworth, menopause specialist and in-house women’s health expert for INTIMINA.

“The classic definition of this condition is that the symptoms follow a cyclical pattern and occur in the luteal phase of the cycle, resolving with menstruation. This part of the cycle is commonly associated with a rise in progesterone, along with a rise in oestrogen, and it is felt that it is the change in these hormones that causes the symptoms.”

A rise in prostaglandins chemicals is also thought to lead to more severe symptoms.

“During the luteal phase of the cycle there is a rise in chemicals called prostaglandins, that produce inflammatory changes in the body,” adds Unsworth. “For some reason in certain individuals this can lead on to more systemic symptoms, although the reason this affects some women and not others is not understood.”

What are the treatment options?

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for period flu, but the focus is usually on managing symptoms.

Medications such as antidepressants are sometimes prescribed.

“Antidepressants may help with mood issues, while anti-diarrhoea medicines can address gastrointestinal problems,” says Dallas. “Hormone therapy (like some contraceptive pills) can also reduce symptoms for some, and pain relievers like ibuprofen are effective for cramps.

“In addition, diuretics can relieve swelling but may cause side effects.”

Supportive measures also play an important role in managing symptoms.

“Heat therapy and massage can alleviate pain,” highlights Dallas. “Applying gentle heat can relax muscles and improve circulation, while massage may help ease discomfort.”

Lifestyle changes are also often recommended as part of a holistic approach to treating period flu.

“Staying hydrated, exercising, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep are important,” says Dallas. “Reducing salt, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine can also help.”

When should you see a doctor about this?

If symptoms are severe or interfere with daily life, consult a medical professional.

“Symptoms can be very troubling and hard to manage and may require treatment if they are impacting on normal life,” says Unsworth. “If they do not resolve with menstruation then this would suggest there is something else going on and I would recommend seeking medical advice.

“If they are associated with other changes with your periods such as them becoming heavier, irregular, more painful or are associated with unexplained weight loss and I would also recommend medical advice.”