How should a Christian woman handle PMS?

what does the bible say?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects up to 75% of menstruating women, presenting a range of physical and emotional symptoms tied to hormone fluctuations. While physical symptoms can be managed through awareness and planning, emotional challenges often require self-control and reliance on God to navigate. Spiritual growth can emerge from PMS, as women can use the experience to deepen their connection with God and others, recognizing that their struggles don’t exempt them from showing love and kindness. Medical intervention may be necessary for severe symptoms, and it's essential to approach treatment options with care and wisdom. Ultimately, PMS should not dictate behavior; instead, it can be an opportunity for reliance on God and fostering closer relationships with others.

from the old testament

God created the human body, including the female body, with intentionality and design. We are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).God is intimately aware of our struggles and emotions (Psalm 139:1–6). Like so many psalmists, we can always cry out to Him in prayer (see also Hebrews 4:14–16).

from the new testament

God knows even the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:30). He is aware of and attentive to any struggles with PMS.First Peter 5:6–11 encourages us to cast our anxieties on God, be vigilant against Satan, recognize that we are not alone in suffering, and be encouraged by the promises of God. We can apply these verses to our struggles with PMS, being reliant on God to carry us through and cognizant not to allow the enemy a foothold.First Thessalonians 5:16–18 encourages us to rejoice, pray continually, and give thanks in all things. When dealing with PMS, we can take extra care to express gratitude and, as with every day in our lives, pray. Philippians 4:4–8 is a good guide for our prayers and thought focus.In Matthew 22:34–40, Jesus says the greatest commandments are to love God and love others. This is not affectionate love; it is agape, which is a love that chooses to sacrifice for another. First Corinthians 13 explains what love looks like. It is patient and kind, it does not insist on getting its own way, it is not irritable, it bears and endures all things. Nowhere does the Bible say that Christians are exempt from showing such love because of any reason, including PMS.Jesus did not let His physical condition get in the way of His obedience to God and His love for others. When Jesus hung on the cross, beaten and tortured, He saved a thief (Luke 23:43), cared for His mother (John 19:26–27), and forgave His murderers (Luke 23:34). It's an extreme example, but it's still something to think about (Philippians 2:1–11). How you express that love may look different when you're in pain and feeling the emotional weight of unwanted hormones, but PMS doesn't have to control you.Galatians 5:22–24 promises that you can exhibit the fruit of the Spirit instead of being enslaved to the desires of the flesh.In moments of discomfort, we can find comfort in His presence and strength (Philippians 4:13).We can celebrate our femininity and rely on God’s grace, knowing we are loved and valued by our Creator (1 Peter 5:7).

implications for today

PMS can cause a range of physical and emotional issues that often interconnect, making management challenging; for example, cravings can lead to specific food intake that can worsen bloating, while physical activity like walking can alleviate cramps. Awareness of one’s cycle and symptoms can help women prepare for and manage their experience, acknowledging that emotional fluctuations can also lead to productive self-reflection and necessary personal time. While faith is important, severe PMS symptoms should not be ignored; medical advice may be needed and health changes might need to be made.

PMS is inevitable for much of the population, but you don't have to be ruled by it. A few preventative measures, extra rest, and a healthy reliance on God can ensure you are led by the Spirit and not controlled by the flesh. PMS is not a free ticket or an excuse to be unkind. It's an opportunity to become closer to God and rely on Him for your needs (Matthew 6:25–34).

It's noteworthy to realize that God did not design people to go through life—or even PMS—alone (Genesis 1:27; 2:18; Romans 12:15; 1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Despite the cultural norm that encourages women to hide when they are menstruating, it helps to have someone else to rely on. They may pick up extra chocolate, be flexible and understanding for missed social events, and provide emotional support. They can even encourage us to recognize when we're letting the hormones get the better of us. Hebrews 10:24 says, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works." Proverbs 27:6a says, "Faithful are the wounds of a friend." Sometimes you need someone else to remind you how to live like Christ.