In our quest to know more about our women, I think it is paramount for us men to know as much as we can about their psychological and emotional cycles.

Today’s topic Romance vs. PMS Blues was succinctly summarized in a tune sung by the great Dolly Parton:

Eve you wicked woman, you done put your curse on me

Why didn’t you just leave that apple hangin’ in the tree
You make us hate our husbands, our lovers and our boss
Why I can’t even count the good friends I’ve already lost
Cause of PMS blues, PMS blues
I don’t even like myself, but it’s something I can’t help
I got those God almighty, slap somebody PMS blues
Most times I’m easy going, some say I’m good as gold
But when I’m PMS I tell ya, I turn mean and cold
Those not afflicted with it are affected just the same
You poor old men didn’t have to grin and say “I feel your pain”
PMS blues, PMS blues

Dolly might be over stating it a little, however to the recipient partner most of what’s mentioned above holds true. “Got those moods a swingin’, tears a slingin’ Nothin’ fits me when it hits me. Rantin’, ravin’, misbehaving – PMS blues”.

Science has yet to pin point the reason women go through this very intense cycle, one thing we all know is she is not the same. Even the kids learn to stay clear of mommy. So what should we men do to remain the even keel, supportive and yes romantic man she needs?

Communicate with care

Take the things she says with a grain of salt, the words may go from flammable to soothing in an instant. Try not to argue and DO NOT ask stupid questions; also try to understand that physically she might be hurting too.

Be supportive

This is where the real romantic you take over; do the things she needs without her requesting it. These are some of the things I have learnt to do:

• After work as we sit to watch TV and talk about the day, take her feet and rub them.
• Cook beef, her red blood cells will thank you, use less salt and almost totally avoid caffeine, spicy food and alcohol.
• Go walking together and talk about anything, this seem to ease her mind.
• If you see her in pain then become the medical professional in the house, offer aspirin or at least a heating pad.
• Try not to burden her physically nor emotionally unless unavoidable – oh on the flip try not to lather on the mushy stuff.

Lover on, Lover off

Learn to read the mood of your woman. Depending on the woman, the libido gamut runs from Arizona hot to very cold, like Alaska in the middle of winter with a frozen sign that reads “don’t even try it buster”.

An associate puts it like this; “give me chocolate and leave me the f alone”.

Cuddling works, this is a good way to test the temperature and it’s also comforting and reassuring.

The best and most time tested soother you can use are words – tell her how much you love and appreciate her, and when this pms blues and the days to follow are all done – watch out buster!