Pre-Menstrual Syndrome – Homeopathic Treatment

Treatment for PMDD and PMS

Treatment for PMDD is palliative and is directed at preventing or minimizing symptoms. The option of treatment for PMDD may include:

Antidepressants.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, others) and sertraline (Zoloft), are treatments for PMDD that may reduce emotional symptoms, fatigue, food cravings, and sleep problems. You can reduce symptoms of PMDD by taking SSRIs all month or only during the interval between ovulation and the start of your period.

Birth control pills.

Taking birth control pills with no pill-free interval or with a shortened pill-free interval may reduce PMS and PMDD.

Nutritional supplements.

Consuming 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily may possibly reduce symptoms of PMS and PMDD. Vitamin B-6, magnesium, and L-tryptophan are PMS treatments that may help but talk to your doctor for advice before taking any supplements.

Diet and lifestyle changes.

Regular exercise often reduces premenstrual symptoms. Cutting back on caffeine, avoiding alcohol, and stopping smoking may ease symptoms, too. Getting enough sleep and using relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation and yoga are PMS treatments that may help.

Over-the-counter pain medicines.

This is another PMS treatment that is used to ease cramps (dysmenorrhea), headaches, breast tenderness, and other physical symptoms.

What is PMDD?

In this article, we’ll discuss what is PMDD, what is the difference between PMDD and PMS, and what is the best natural treatment for PMS and natural treatment for PMDD. This is a more serious form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS causes bloating, headaches, and breast tenderness a week or two before your period.

Women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder aka PMDD have PMS symptoms (bloating, headaches, and breast tenderness) in the weeks before their period. But PMDD also causes severe anxiety, depression, and mood changes. Some women with PMDD become suicidal.

With PMDD, you might have PMS symptoms along with extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms improve within a few days after your period starts, but they can be severe enough to interfere with your life.

What is Premenstrual Syndrome?

Premenstrual syndrome is a combination of different mental and physical disturbances that occur in a woman’s body system after ovulation which is at the onset of her menstrual flow. A woman’s body undergoes certain changes before her period start, and PMS are the symptoms that come into bearing at this period.

The physical disturbances experienced vary in individuals, and these could include fatigue, bloating, acne, and change in appetite, and breast tenderness. Mental stress involves depression, over sensitivity, mood swings, irritability, and crying. Every woman usually has at least two of these symptoms as noticeable signs of PMS.

 Difference between PMS and PMDD

Many women feel different a week or so before they get their periods. They may get depressed, cry often, feel angry, get acne, have tender breasts, feel sleepy, have less energy, and feel heavy or bloated. If you have these problems around the same time every month and they go away when your period starts, you likely have premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

But if your PMS symptoms are so extreme that they stop you from doing the normal things that you do at work or at home, or if they affect the way that you relate to the people in your life, you may have a premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a more severe form of PMS.

Signs of PMS vs. PMDD

Up to 75% of women who have their periods may have mild PMS, but PMDD is much less common. It affects only between 3% and 8% of women. Women with mild PMS may not need a doctor’s help to cope with the symptoms. But women who have PMDD might need to talk to their doctor about ways to improve their issues.

At first glance, PMS and PMDD may seem to be the same because they have many of the same symptoms, including:

• Bloating
• Tender breasts
• Headaches
• Muscle or joint aches and pains
• Fatigue
• Trouble sleeping
• Food cravings
• Changes in mood 

PMS and PMDD are different in several ways:

• If you have PMS, you may feel depressed. But if you have PMDD, your sadness may be so extreme that you feel hopeless. 
• You could feel anxious when you have PMS. But with PMDD, the anxiety you feel is probably on a very different level. 
• When you have PMS, you can get moody. You feel happy one minute and upset or angry the next, and you’re more likely to cry. But with PMDD, your mood swings will be much more severe. You may become very angry, and things are likely to irritate you that wouldn’t normally bother you. 
• If you have PMS and feel depressed, you may feel a little detached from your usual routine. But if you have PMDD, you’re likely to stop caring about your job, your hobbies, your friends and family — anything that otherwise might put you in a good mood.

Symptoms of PMS

The symptoms of PMS are usually mild or moderate. Nearly 80 percent of women report one or more symptom that does not substantially affect daily functioning, according to the journal American Family Physician.

Twenty to 32 percent of women report moderate to severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome that affect some aspect of life. Three to 8 percent report symptoms of PMDD. The severity of symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can vary by individual and by month.

The major symptoms of PMS are:

• Abdominal bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Sore breasts
• Acne
• Food cravings, especially for sweets
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sadness
• Emotional outbursts

Symptoms of PMDD

The symptoms of PMDD are similar to but more severe than those experienced in PMS. Symptoms of PMDD are typically present during the week before menses and resolve within the first few days after menstrual onset.

Those who experience PMDD are often unable to function at their normal capacity while symptoms are present. The condition can affect relationships and disrupt routines at home and work.

Symptoms of PMDD, both common and rare are:

• Severe fatigue
• Mood changes, including irritability, nervousness, depression, and anxiety
• Crying and emotional sensitivity
• Difficulty concentrating
• Heart palpitations
• Paranoia and issues with self-image
• Coordination difficulties
• Forgetfulness
• Abdominal bloating, increased appetite, and gastrointestinal upset
• Headaches
• Backache
• Muscle spasms, numbness, or tingling in the extremities
• Hot flashes
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Sleeplessness
• Vision changes and eye complaints
• Respiratory complaints, such as allergies and infections
• Painful menses
• Decreased libido
• Easy bruising
• Heightened sensitivity

Fluid retention may lead to breast tenderness, decreased urine production, swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles, and temporary weight gain. There may also be skin problems, such as acne, inflammation and itching, and a worsening of cold sores. Most of these symptoms are affective or linked to anxiety.

What Causes PMDD?

Experts don’t know what causes PMDD. Researchers believe that the cause of PMDD is by being very sensitive to changes in hormone levels. Recent research suggests that PMDD is associated with increased sensitivity to the normal hormonal changes that occur during your monthly menstrual cycle.

Genetics.

• Some research suggests that increased sensitivity to changes in hormone levels may be caused by genetic variations.

Smoking.

• Some research suggests that smoking can have an impact on your hormone sensitivity.

Trauma and stress.

• Other research has shown that in some cases PMDD may be linked to stressful and traumatic past events, such as emotional or physical abuse. Stress may also make your PMDD symptoms worse.

What is Causing PMS?

The premenstrual syndrome usually occurs between 7 and 14 days before the period of a woman start, and this can continue all through her period. Even though the exact cause is not known, the general knowledge about the cause is assumed to be hormonal changes that go along with the menstrual cycle. Some suggest that PMS occurs as a result of alterations in sex hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain.

Premenstrual syndrome cannot be attributed to a person’s personality neither can it be attributed to psychological stress. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is rare but is severe than PMS and is treated with antidepressants and birth control pills.

Similarities between PMS and Pregnancy

The symptoms of PMS are related to those of early pregnancy in some women. This is not general to all women as some may report symptoms such as breast tenderness, fatigue, mood swing, and bloating which are common with a woman experiencing PMS.

The way to determine either of the conditions is the arrival of the menstrual period or a positive pregnancy test.

Home remedies for PMS – Most Common Form of Treatment for PMDD and PMS

Home remedies for PMS are natural remedies for PMS that are achievable at home and it is very effective. Listed below are home remedies for PMS

Exercises – An Essential Part of any Natural Treatment for PMDD and PMS

Sticking to a regular exercise routine may help to improve PMS symptoms. Regular aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin (chemical messengers that can boost mood) and has positive benefits on energy and sleep.

Also, regular exercises are good for you too. The more you move and stretch, the better you feel during the last phase of your menstrual cycle.

The most effective exercises to try are:

• Pilates
• Walking
• Swimming

If possible, exercise outdoors to enjoy nature and get a powerful punch of mood-boosting vitamin D.

Stress Management – A Vital Component of Natural Treatment for PMDD and PMS

Breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga are home remedies that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Many women feel more assertive and attuned to their needs in the weeks before menses. This can be used constructively by allowing for personal time to relax, expressing emotions, and giving priority to your needs and what nourishes you.

Sleep Well – Natural Treatment for PMDD and PMS

One of the symptoms of PMS is fatigue, so it makes sense to try to increase your rest and relaxation in these weeks. This includes trying to get more sleep by going to bed earlier. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks before bed or eating meals too late to ensure that you get a full eight hours of sleep. Aim for a full night’s rest

It’s hard enough for people to function without sleep when they’re healthy. If you have PMDD and don’t sleep, it’s almost impossible to get through the day successfully. Chronic insomnia can lead to depression and anxiety. It also increases irritability and fatigue.

You should:

• Go to bed at the same time each night.
• Don’t take long naps during the day.
• Avoid caffeine and other stimulants for several hours before bedtime.
• Only use your bedroom for sex and sleep.
• Avoid TV and computer screens before bedtime.
• Keep your bedroom at a comfortably cool temperature.
• Do something relaxing before bedtime such as reading or taking a warm bath.

Meditation – A Well-Known Treatment for PMS

Research suggests that mindful meditation can reduce anxiety, depression, and pain all common symptoms of PMDD and PMS. Meditation requires you to focus on the present moment and concentrate on your breathing. This can help you relax and detach from uncomfortable symptoms.

Take a Warm Bath – Relieve Symptoms of PMDD and PMS

Warm baths are home remedies for PMS. Warm baths are good for almost anything that ails you. They can help soothe menstrual cramps, ease anxiety, and relax you for a better night’s rest.

Try these tips to get the most from your bath:

• Choose a time when you won’t be interrupted, such as after the kids are in bed.
• Light lavender- or rose-scented candles before you slip into the tub.
• Play soothing background music, such as soft jazz or classical piano.
• Add essential oils to your bathwater. The water will dilute the oil, so there’s no risk of irritation.

Keep the relaxation momentum going after your bath by slipping into a plush robe and slippers. Prepare a hot water bottle and place it on your belly or lower back for further pain relief.

Yoga – Exercise-Based Natural Treatment for PMDD

Yoga is an ancient practice that uses deep breathing, meditation, and specific poses to warm the body and help ease pain and promote relaxation. According to a 2016 study, yoga can improve menstrual pain and overall health. It also helped women become more aware of their physical and emotional distress, which may help them cope better.

You might find the following yoga poses beneficial:

• Bridge
• Downward-Facing Dog
• Butterfly

Other natural PMS remedies are:

• Taking calcium supplements is worth considering as the symptoms of PMS and calcium deficiency are very similar. Some believe that vitamin E can help alleviate PMS. Taking magnesium can help if you retain water during your period. And Vitamin B6 can help to boost the effects of your magnesium supplements as well as being helpful with mood changes.
• Evening Primrose Oil has also been found to help alleviate breast tenderness for some women.
• Research suggests that Agnus castus may help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and mood swings that some women experience with PMS. PremHerb is a traditional herbal medicinal product used for the relief of the symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.

Homeopathy – #1 Natural Treatment for PMDD and PMS

There are various homeopathic remedies for PMS, and each is applied to individual cases of premenstrual syndrome. Enumerated below are a few of the remedies as they are not limited to the ones listed below.

Sepia is a good remedy to treat irritability in women with PMS especially a few days to the commencement of the period. This irritability usually comes with the avoidance of any activity that requires exerting physical or mental effort insignificant proportion. Sepia calms the mind of such a woman.

Pulsatilla is an effective remedy that is suitable for a woman with much sensitivity to changes during PMS. Such a woman gets so emotional over trivial things and is visible as she cries even in public, getting relieved when offered some form of sympathy. Such a person feels good in an environment with fresh air.

Ignatia is a homeopathic remedy that is suitable for treating depression and mood swings shown by PMS. Such a person tends to be comfortable not keeping company, preferring to be alone. Such a woman feels sad as the time for period approaches and is often seen crying.

Conium is a remedy that is best for treating breast tenderness which is characterized by pain in the breast, swelling, and enlargement of the breast before the period commences. Such a woman’s breast is sensitive to touch, and it gets painful and hard as a result.

Lachesis is a Homeopathic remedy that is useful for a woman experiencing pain in different parts of the body due to PMS. This pain is experienced a few days before the start of the period and stops once the period commencing. One major pain experienced is a headache, and the person feels uncomfortable in tight clothes.

Bryonia is a remedy closely related to conium as both treat breast tenderness. Bryonia treats extreme heaviness of the breast which is accompanied by pain before the commencement of the period. 

Carbo Vegetabilis is suitable for women who experience bloating especially a distended abdomen before the period. Such a person experiences excessive gas in the abdomen, and this leads to pain. 

Bovista is a homeopathic remedy for diarrhea that shows up before menses. The women may also suffer from heavy bleeding.

It is essential to seek the service of a qualified homeopath for a proper prescription to get the best remedy that suits your condition.

Homeopathic Treatment for PMS in Philadelphia

Doctor Tsan, Medical Director of the Philadelphia Homeopathic Clinic has experience in PMS treatment. He started his medical career as an OB-GYN physician and during almost 40 years of his clinical practice had a lot of female patients suffered from this popular medical condition. Many women believe that PMS is a normal condition caused by hormonal instability during the last part of the menstrual cycle, however, this instability should not happen in a healthy woman’s body. Not only family members, but also women herself suffer during the time of the PMS. Homeopathy is one of the best medical approaches in PMS clinics and women should not suffer every month.

If you need to schedule an appointment for the homeopathic consultation call our clinic or use our automatic scheduling system.