Periods. Love them or loathe them, they’re a part of life for many people who menstruate. But what happens leading up to that first spot of blood that marks Aunt Flo’s arrival? Well, that’s where premenstrual syndrome (PMS) comes in—a delightful cocktail of physical and emotional changes your body throws at you to say, “Hey, your period’s knocking.” While PMS can vary from person to person, there are some telltale signs your period is coming that many experience.
This article dives into the 10 most common signs your period is coming, what they mean, and how to know when your period is coming to stock up on your go-to Hello Period products. Don’t worry, we’ll also cover why symptoms might show up without a period and share some tips on managing symptoms like a pro—‘cause no one has time for unnecessary discomfort.
1. Breaking Out
Does it sometimes feel like your face is plotting against you? That’s hormonal acne at work. Right before your period starts, an increase in androgen hormones causes your skin to produce extra oil (thanks, body). That oil mixes with bacteria and dead skin cells, clogging pores and often leading to breakouts, especially around your jawline and chin.
What’s the fix? Gentle skincare and products with salicylic acid can help keep those hormonal pimples at bay. And remember—your skin isn’t the enemy. It’s just trying to keep up with all the changes happening inside.
2. Sore or Heavy Breasts
Ever noticed your chest feels fuller, heavier, or more sensitive when your period is around the corner? You’re not imagining it—that’s your hormones playing another fun game called “fluctuation.” Oestrogen makes the breast ducts larger, while progesterone swells the milk glands. This can leave you feeling tender or downright sore. This tenderness is one way how you know your period is coming. A comfy, supportive bra is your bestie during this time. A comfy, supportive bra is your bestie during this time. And if the pain’s a bit much, a warm compress or some over-the-counter pain relief can work wonders.
3. Feeling Tired But Can’t Sleep
Raise your hand if you’re ready to crash into bed but can’t—only to feel utterly exhausted the next day. Hormonal shifts in progesterone and oestrogen can mess with your sleep cycle, leaving you tossing and turning when you’re desperate for shut-eye. If you’re wondering how to know when your period is coming, this disruption in sleep could be a key indicator. Try creating a wind-down routine before bed. That could mean a hot cuppa (caffeine-free), some light reading, or even a few minutes of mindfulness to tackle the problem head-on.
4. Cramping (and Not Just Your Style)
Do cramps mean my period is coming? Most likely—your body is just gearing up for its routine.
Menstrual cramps usually get all the attention, but did you know you can experience cramping before your period starts? These bad boys are caused by prostaglandins—chemicals that make your uterus contract in preparation for menstruation.
Heat packs and gentle yoga are lifesavers for soothing cramps. Or, you could opt for whatever activity makes you feel the most in control of your body. These contractions are just your body going through its routine—so give it a break too.
5. Constipated or Have Diarrhoea
Yep, your digestive system joins the PMS circus as well. Hormonal changes can mess with your gut. Some people experience constipation, while others deal with diarrhoea. And if you’re a little bloated or gassy to boot, you’re not alone.
Staying hydrated, eating fibre-rich foods, and maybe sending some love to your gut with probiotics can help smooth things over (quite literally). If you’re wondering, does discharge mean your period is coming? Sometimes, yes—it’s part of the body’s preparation.
6. Bloated and Gassy
Feeling gassy? It could be one of the many signs your period is coming in a week.
Speaking of bloating, it’s one of the most common PMS symptoms. Your body tends to retain water before your period due to—you guessed it—hormones. This can leave you feeling like a balloon that’s had just a smidge too much helium.
Avoiding super salty foods, drinking plenty of water, and taking your favourite stretch pants for a spin can be your best strategies here.
7. That Annoying Headache
Hormonal dips (especially oestrogen) can bring on headaches or migraines right before your cycle. These headaches are common signs and symptoms your period is coming. Not ideal when you’re already trying to deal with all the other symptoms, huh?
If headaches are a regular feature of your PMS, keep some pain relief handy. Also, make sure you’re hydrated—it’s the simple things that often work wonders.
8. Mood Swings
Happy one minute, crying at a puppy meme the next? Yep, these mood swings are how you can tell if your period is coming. The drop in hormones like oestrogen and serotonin can toy with your emotions, making you feel all kinds of unpredictable.
What helps? Go easy on yourself. It’s okay to feel all the feels. Talking it out with a best mate, journaling, or even watching your fave tv show can help balance those emotions.
9. Feeling Anxious or Down
For some, PMS isn’t just about mood swings, but deeper feelings of anxiety or sadness. This is linked to chemical changes in your brain thanks to fluctuating hormones, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Recognising this emotional shift is another way how to know my period is coming.
Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, or seeking support through a counsellor can help if this feels especially tough. You deserve kindness from yourself, always.
10. Lower Back Pain
Achy lower back? It’s not just your posture. Those uterine contractions we mentioned earlier can radiate to your back, leaving you sore and stiff.
Heat therapy, massages, and gentle stretching can work wonders. Or just give yourself the day off—it’s your body telling you to slow down a little.
Period Symptoms But No Period
Sometimes you might feel all the signs of a period coming but find no actual period in sight. What’s that about? Here are a few common reasons:
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Irregular periods often linked to factors like puberty, perimenopause, or underlying conditions like PCOS.
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Mental or physical stress can wreak havoc on your hormonal balance.
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Hormonal birth control can throw off your regular bleeding schedule.
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Pregnancy—yep, early pregnancy symptoms can mimic PMS.
When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider to get to the root of what’s happening.
How to Manage Symptoms Before Your Period Starts
The pre-period blues aren’t inevitable. With some simple steps, you can feel more in control of your cycle:
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Manage stress: Meditation, deep breathing, or creative outlets can make all the difference.
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Get enough sleep: Quality rest helps your body bounce back faster.
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Healthy eating: A balanced diet rich in whole foods fuels your body better.
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Exercise: Gentle activities like walking or stretching release feel-good endorphins.
For extra support, some dietary supplements like magnesium or vitamin B6 can work wonders too.
And for when your period actually starts, leaning on period products built for comfort and reliability (Hello Period, anyone?) can make all the difference. Why not explore the range at Hello Period.
Feel Confident and Comfortable Every Cycle with Hello Period
Your cycle shouldn’t feel like a burden—and with Hello Period, it doesn’t have to. From sustainable menstrual cups to absorbent period underwear, every product is made to simplify your period and reduce its environmental impact.
Join the movement where people everywhere are celebrating their cycles—you’ll wonder how you managed without us.
Empower Your Cycle
Knowing the signs your period is coming means being in sync with your body. That’s empowering. Listen to your signals, love your routine, and make periods the easiest part of the month with Hello Period products.
Shop Hello Period today to make the switch to sustainable, comfortable period care.
