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PMS

Premenstrual Syndrome – PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the term used to describe a group of symptoms that women may experience about 7-14 days before their period (menstruation). The symptoms usually stop soon after your period starts. For some women the symptoms can be debilitating and can cause lost time from work or school and even can land them in bed for days.

What are some of the common symptoms of PMS?

At Serenity Health Care Center, we often find that women are confused about the symptoms of PMS.  This is because there are 150+ symptoms that can be associated with PMS.  Some of the more commonly noted are:

  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Bloating (water retention)
  • Depression (mild to moderate)
  • Food cravings, especially sugar and carbohydrates
  • Weight gain
  • Breast tenderness

This is quite a list that can and does affect a woman’s quality of life.  There is no need to continue to struggle with PMS, month after month.  Help is available!

What is the difference between mild to moderate to severe PMS?

There are two medically defined categories for PMS.   Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe case of PMS. PMDD can cause extreme mood shifts and a majority of the symptoms note above are heightened. For women suffering with PMDD, at least one of the following emotional symptoms is present:

  • Extreme sadness and feelings of hopelessness
  • Heightened tension and anxiety
  • Marked moodiness
  • Marked anger and irritability

Why do PMS symptoms occur?

Dr. Debra Muth explains that there are two main reasons why PMS symptoms occur; the first and commonly recognized in mainstream medicine is hormonal imbalance.
Hormonal imbalance can easily be evaluated by either saliva or blood testing. What is often found is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone, two major players in the regulation of the menstrual cycle

The second, less commonly known, is hormone allergies. Hormone allergies are not recognized in mainstream medicine due to the fact that allergies occur after long term low grade exposure to an agent.

Are there any tests that can be used to measure my hormonal imbalance?

At Serenity Health Care Center, we employ a number of tests that are extremely helpful in measuring your hormone levels.  Salvia testing is conducted on day 21 of the menstrual cycle from the comfort of your home, or blood testing can be done.

What treatments are available for PMS?

Treatment for PMS at Serenity Health Care Center are customized for our patients and focused on preventing and minimizing PMS symptoms.  These include a combination of:

  • Evaluation and regulation of birth control pills and contraception
  • Dietary evaluation and nutritional supplementation
  • Herbal remedies
  • Lifestyle changes and adjustments

Ready To Get Started?

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