Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that many people experience in the days or weeks leading up to menstruation. PMS can severely affect a female’s quality of life has been shown to affect around 20-40% of the premenopausal female population and Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) around 3-8% of premenopausal females.
Symptoms
Symptoms
PMS symptoms can vary widely among individuals but commonly include:
Physical Symptoms:
– Breast tenderness
– Bloating
– Fatigue
– Headaches
– Cramps
– Changes in appetite or food cravings
Emotional and Behavioural Symptoms:
– Mood swings
– Irritability
– Anxiety
– Depression
– Insomnia
– Difficulty concentrating
It’s essential to differentiate between PMS and a more severe condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which involves severe emotional symptoms that can significantly disrupt daily life.
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis includes a symptom free week which occurs between menstruation and ovulation with symptoms recurring in the luteal phase
Causes
The exact causes of PMS are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:
1. Hormonal Changes: A trigger by hormonal events post ovulation in the mid/late luteal phase which suggests hormonal imbalance such as oestrogen excess and progesterone deficiency.
2. Chemical Changes in the Brain: Changes in serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, can contribute to emotional symptoms like mood swings and irritability.
3. Genetics: There appears to be a genetic component to PMS. If your mother or sisters have experienced severe PMS, you may be more likely to as well.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices can exacerbate PMS symptoms, such as high caffeine or alcohol consumption, poor diet, lack of exercise, and high stress levels.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: In some cases, deficiencies in specific vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins or magnesium, can contribute to PMS symptoms.
6. Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can worsen PMS symptoms or make individuals more sensitive to them.
There are a number of ways a Naturopath/Homeopath/Nutritionist at Morkare Natural Clinic can help manage Hormonal Acne:
A Naturopath Homeopath or Nutritionist can help individuals with PMS by taking a holistic and natural approach to address the underlying causes and alleviate symptoms.
Here are ways in which we can assist:
1. Nutritional Guidance: A focus on dietary changes to help balance hormones and reduce PMS symptoms. They may recommend specific foods or supplements rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Herbal Remedies: Naturopaths may suggest herbal remedies such as chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) or evening primrose oil, which are believed to help regulate hormones and reduce PMS symptoms.
3. Lifestyle Recommendations: Naturopaths can provide guidance on lifestyle changes, including stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, and relaxation methods, which can help manage PMS.
4. Hormone Balancing: Naturopaths may use herbal remedies such as chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), which can help address hormonal fluctuations contributing to PMS.
5. Detoxification: Naturopaths sometimes recommend detoxification programs to help the body eliminate excess hormones and toxins that could worsen PMS.
6. Stress Management: Stress can worsen PMS symptoms, so a focus on stress reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation exercises is often recommended.
7. Homeopathic Remedies: Homeopathic remedies are safe and do not have any side effects and can help manage PMS