PMS Specialist

What is PMS?

PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is a condition that tends to occur in a predictable pattern around the time of menstruation — usually about 7-10 days before your cycle starts. Your PMS may include a variety of physical symptoms, including:

• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Joint pain
• Muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Acne
• Constipation or diarrhea

You may also experience emotional and behavioral changes, such as:

• Mood swings, including irritability, anger, and crying spells
• Anxiety and depression
• Appetite changes or food cravings
• Insomnia
• Trouble focusing
• Withdrawing socially

The symptoms of PMS tend to disappear about four days into your menstrual cycle. If your PMS symptoms make it difficult for you to function, you may have a severe form of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

What causes PMS and PMDD?

The hormonal fluctuations that occur in the days leading up to menstruation may trigger your PMS symptoms. Your PMS symptoms disappear if you become pregnant or go through menopause.

Your symptoms may also be caused or exacerbated by fluctuations of chemicals in your brain that are related to appetite, mood, and sleep. If you suffer from depression, you may be more susceptible to PMS or PMDD.

How can I treat PMS?

You may find that all you need to control your symptoms is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.

If your symptoms persist, your specialist at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN may prescribe antidepressants to control mood swings, diuretics to alleviate bloating, or hormonal contraceptives that stop ovulation, if necessary.

They will also counsel you on certain lifestyle changes that can keep your PMS symptoms in check, such as:

• Limiting salt to prevent bloating
• Avoiding caffeine
• Exercising 30 minutes daily
• Practicing meditation, yoga, and other stress-relief techniques
• Eating a healthy diet with plenty of vegetables and calcium
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Getting sufficient sleep

Alternative therapies that include calcium, magnesium, or vitamin E supplements can be helpful, as can herbal remedies containing ginkgo biloba, ginger, chasteberry, evening primrose oil, and St. John’s wort. Always notify your doctor of any supplements you are taking, as they may cause negative reactions when combined with certain medications.

You don’t have to suffer from PMS or PMDD. If you’re ready to find the remedies that work best for you, call the friendly staff at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN or book your appointment online.