Weird signs your period is coming include appetite changes, mood changes, mouth or gum pain, and sensitive skin. These common symptoms are not the only ones that can occur before menstruation. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may also cause headaches, lower back pain, breast swelling, and cramps before your period. The exact cause of PMS is unclear, but hormonal changes likely play a major role.

Each person’s menstrual cycle is different, so not everyone experiences PMS before their period.

Increased Hunger

A rise in appetite may be a secondary PMS symptom. Hormonal fluctuations can trigger cravings for sugary or salty foods right before your period. Serotonin—a mood-regulating chemical—is often lower at this time, which may make you crave sweets to help elevate your mood.

You may want to snack on foods high on the glycemic index, such as brownies, cookies, or chips, because they raise blood sugar quickly. Choosing nutrient-rich whole foods before and during your period can help stabilize appetite.

For others, PMS may cause nausea or constipation. Reducing alcohol, caffeine, and sodium in the two weeks before your period may ease PMS symptoms. Increasing calcium-rich foods (soy, chia seeds, kale, dairy) and vitamin B6 sources (fish, poultry, potatoes, non-citrus fruits) can also help.

Skin Sensitivity Or Breakouts

Research shows that many people experience increased skin sensitivity right before their period. Estrogen normally helps protect the skin, but levels drop during the premenstrual phase. As a result, the skin may feel more tender or reactive than usual.

Acne, eczema, and psoriasis flare-ups may also worsen around this time. These symptoms often peak when progesterone levels are high before menstruation.

Mood Changes, Anxiety, Or Depression

Mood swings, anxiety, and depression can appear as PMS symptoms. In more severe cases, these signs may indicate premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), an intense form of PMS. The exact cause of PMDD is unknown, but changes in serotonin likely play a role.

Thoughts of suicide may occur in severe PMDD. Anyone experiencing this should speak with a healthcare provider immediately. Some people benefit from taking antidepressants only during the days when PMDD symptoms appear.

Mouth Or Gum Pain

Hormonal fluctuations—especially surges in estrogen and progesterone—can increase blood flow to the gums and temporarily weaken the body's ability to fight plaque. This may cause swollen or tender gums before your period.

Maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce discomfort. Brushing and flossing consistently helps clear plaque that contributes to gum sensitivity.

Do All People Get PMS?

Not everyone experiences PMS, but many people who menstruate do. Nearly 90% report at least some PMS symptoms, including appetite changes, headaches, mood changes, back pain, and breast tenderness. About 20% experience symptoms severe enough to affect daily activities.

PMS is more common in individuals who have:

chronic stress
depression or postpartum depression
a family history of depression

How Long PMS Symptoms Last

PMS symptoms usually begin about five days before the start of your period. Hormonal changes in estrogen and progesterone trigger these symptoms. PMS typically subsides within four days after your period begins.

Understanding PMDD

About 5% of menstruating individuals experience PMDD. Symptoms are more intense than PMS and may include:

anger or irritability
severe mood swings
anxiety or deep sadness
low energy
panic attacks
bloating, cramps, headaches, or breast tenderness
loss of interest in activities
sleep disturbances
trouble concentrating

Symptoms usually begin one to two weeks before the period and last until two to three days after menstruation starts. Healthcare providers may prescribe medication or recommend relaxation techniques for relief.

Period Symptoms But No Period

Experiencing PMS-like symptoms without getting your period may indicate pregnancy. Early signs such as bloating, fatigue, and swollen breasts can mimic PMS.

Other possible causes include:

certain medications
intense exercise
low body weight
overactive thyroid
polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
stress

When To Contact A Healthcare Provider

Most PMS symptoms can be managed at home, but you should consult a healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve with treatment or interfere with daily activities. Seek immediate medical attention if you have thoughts of self-harm.