Premenstrual Syndrome Therapy Specialist

What is premenstrual syndrome?

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, involves symptoms that often develop 1-2 weeks before you start your period. Many women have at least some PMS symptoms that go away after their periods begin. Examples include:

• Acne
• Bloating
• Headache or joint pain
• Breast tenderness and swelling
• Weight gain
• Food cravings
• Mood swings, irritability, or anger
• Depression or anxiety
• Crying spells
• Insomnia

Some PMS symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your everyday life. If this is the case for you, premenstrual syndrome therapy helps you enjoy life to its fullest.

What causes premenstrual syndrome?

The cause of premenstrual syndrome isn’t entirely clear, but hormone fluctuations trigger symptoms. Some women are genetically prone to developing severe PMS symptoms based on their family history.

While you can’t always avoid PMS, there are several things you can do to lower your risk. Examples include getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.

What is premenstrual syndrome therapy?

After reviewing your symptoms and completing an exam, your OB/GYN creates a premenstrual syndrome therapy plan that best matches your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for PMS, and no lab tests or physical findings are necessary to make a diagnosis. Your provider might recommend the following options:

Medications

Taking medications can ease PMS symptoms and restore your quality of life. Your gynecologist might recommend antidepressants to reduce mood swings, pain-relieving medications that ease discomfort caused by cramps or breast tenderness, diuretics to reduce water retention, or hormonal contraceptives to stop ovulation and reduce symptoms associated with it.

Lifestyle changes

Making lifestyle changes can help ease unpleasant PMS symptoms. Examples of at-home treatments you can try include relaxation techniques (yoga or massage), eating small meals to ease bloating, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, exercising at least 30 minutes daily, and getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.

Limit salty foods and eat plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Make sure you get plenty of calcium in your diet from foods, dietary supplements, or both.

If premenstrual syndrome is getting the best of you, schedule an appointment with the OB/GYN team at Beach Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Group to review premenstrual syndrome therapy options today or use the online booking tool.