Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Sometimes called premenstrual tension (PMT), premenstrual syndrome is a collection of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms related to the female menstrual cycle.

Around 80 percent of women of child-bearing age have some symptoms of PMS. More than 200 different symptoms have been identified, but the three most prominent symptoms are irritability, tension, and unhappiness or stress. Bloatedness, cramps, fatigue and acne are also common but the exact symptoms and their intensity vary from woman to woman. Symptoms are usually predictable and occur during the two weeks prior to menses, usually improving when the woman’s period starts and disappearing a few days afterwards.

The exact cause of PMS is not fully understood. However, it’s thought to be linked to the changing levels of hormones in the body during a woman’s menstrual cycle. Family history is often a good predictor of the probability of the experience of PMS, and other factors such as caffeine intake, stress, age, history of depression and diet may play a role. PMS usually improves after the menopause.

Treating PMS

There is plenty that can be done to limit the symtoms of PMS naturally.

The first main step is to address the diet. Eating little and often (around every 3 hours) combined with fish oil supplements will keep your blood-sugar stable, controlling mood swings. It will also be beneficial to avoid too much salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol. Aerobic exercise has been found to be helpful.

If you suffer from bloating or water retention, you may wish to use a natural diuretic such as green tea, nettle tea, apple cider vinegar, or fennel.

There follows a list of products that clients have enjoyed success with. For personalised advice, please email or call 01730 233 414.