Pre-Menstrual Syndrome

Can include the following:

• Food cravings
• Bloating and fluid retention, resulting in weight gain
• Breast swelling, tenderness and pain
• Acne
• Headaches and backaches
• Urinary disorders
• Anxiety and crying
• Depression
• Mood swings, irritability, aggressive behaviour
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness and fatigue
• Nausea and clumsiness
• Joint or muscle pain

Most women only experience a few of these symptoms. Hormonal fluctuations can make this condition worse at certain times such as after childbirth, miscarriage or abortion, and in the lead-up to menopause. Women may also experience PMS after discontinuing birth-control pills.

The menstrual cycle is generally divided into three phases known as the follicular (or proliferative) phase, ovulation and the luteal (or secretory) phase. PMS occurs largely as a result of the changes in the levels of oestrogen and progesterone that occur during the luteal phase, which commences at the time of ovulation (usually the 14th day after the start of menstruation if your cycle is 28 days). Research is ongoing to determine why some women are affected by PMS and others are not, and to better understand how the symptoms of PMS are caused; however, a number of factors are known to influence PMS symptoms including:

• Deficiency of vitamin B6 and essential fatty acids
• Imbalance of calcium and magnesium
• Blood sugar imbalance
• Food allergy
• Hormonal imbalance extending beyond oestrogen/progesterone imbalance (for example, some symptoms, such as breast tenderness, have been linked to an imbalance of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates the production of breast milk)

Treatment of PMS varies depending on the symptoms you are experiencing, and the extent to which they impact your life. Your healthcare professional will discuss your situation with you and prescribe the appropriate medication.

• Zinc is an essential mineral used for wound healing and the normal oil gland function of the skin. It is also involved in the maintenance of vitamin A levels, transport and usage; for protein synthesis, (particularly collagen synthesis); and to help maintain hormonal balance.
• Deficiencies of essential fatty acids (such as those found in evening primrose oil) and B Complex vitamins (especially vitamin B6) are associated with PMS
• Cramp bark and black cohosh are antispasmodic herbs which may help to relieve symptoms associated with cramping pain; magnesium may also be of assistance
• The mineral chromium helps to relieve blood sugar imbalance, and may help to alleviate symptoms of sugar and carbohydrate cravings
• Hypericum is indicated to relieve depression and anxiety associated with PMS

Avoiding caffeine is particularly important in the prevention and treatment of PMS. Research shows that women who regularly consume caffeine are up to four times more likely to experience severe PMS symptoms. Give up slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms, and aim to drink 6-8 glasses of fresh filtered water each day.

Many women find that including foods rich in phytoestrogens (or isoflavones) in their diet helps to prevent PMS - the best dietary sources are soya products such as miso, tofu, and soya-enriched breads and cereals. Soy supplements may help.

Maintain optimum nutrient levels in your body by taking a women's multivitamin and mineral formula, preferably one containing vitamin B6, magnesium and calcium; daily supplementation with 3000mg evening primrose oil may also help to prevent PMS.

Severe PMS symptoms may be an indication of an underlying problem such as endometriosis. If your PMS symptoms are severe, or are not relieved by the remedies suggested above, consult your healthcare professional.