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Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a disorder that occurs in women during the last part of the menstrual cycle. PMS is quite common. Between 50% and 70% of women, or more than 1 in 2, suffer from PMS. One woman in 20 suffers so severely that their lives are seriously affected.
It is believed that there are about 150 physical and emotional symptoms that women may experience. However, the most commonly reported symptoms are:
Physical Symptoms of PMS
- Abdominal cramps
- Breast tenderness
- Generalized aches and pains
- Weight gain
- Joint swelling
- Intense cravings for carbohydrates, salt, and sweets
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Skin problems such as acne
- Fatigue
Cognitive Symptoms of PMS
- Sadness / Tearfulness
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Mood Swings / Irritability
- Depression
- Poor Concentration
- Panic attacks
The number, type and severity of symptoms experienced can vary from woman to woman, and from month to month. Symptoms increase about 7-10 days before the onset of the period and then immediately decline. Symptoms are not experienced throughout the menstrual cycle. If a woman reports experiencing symptoms throughout the menstrual cycle, it is not PMS.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) occurs in about 2-5% of all women. PMDD is when the symptoms are so severe that they interfere with normal daily activities.
Causes of PMS
The theories as to what causes PMS include:
- Hormones - PMS symptoms are believed to be triggered by menstrual hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
- Metabolism - Some PMS symptoms may be caused by the body's inability to properly metabolize fatty acids.
- Calcium - Some researchers believe the cause of PMS may be linked to a calcium deficiency in sufferers.
- Environment – Factors such as the increased use of chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides, may be linked to an increase in rates of PMS.
- Combination – PMS symptoms are possibly brought on by a combination of diet, stress, and mineral and vitamin deficiencies.
The lives of women today are very different than they were 100, 50, or even 20 years ago. Constant physical and emotional demands combined with environmental and societal factors, can offset a woman’s equilibrium and leave her experiencing symptoms of PMS.
What is the treatment approach?
At the Pacific Wellness Institute in Toronto, gentle heat is applied to the acupuncture points on the low abdomen and lumbar sacrum region using a moxibution stick feels remarkably soothing and often provides instant relief in various symptoms such as cramping. Regular acupuncture treatment is helpful in balancing female hormonal function and the autonomic nervous system and is effective for the long-term management of PMS.
What about my diet or taking supplements?
Many PMS sufferers benefit from making diet modifications and taking supplements to decrease various symptoms related to PMS. Our nutritional program is designed to support your body in its effort to maintain:
- The function of the endocrine glands involved in the balance of estrogen and progesterone.
- The circulation of the blood, the medium through which hormones must travel to reach the ovaries, uterus, and endometrium.
- Liver function, the organ where hormones are broken down and eliminated, preventing the excess accumulation of unwanted hormones.
Analyzing your answers in the form HAQ (containing about 500 questions) and Diet/lifestyle form (about 30 questions) helps me pinpoint possible imbalances in your system and helps me create the most effective dietary/nutritional approach. If you are interested, contact the Pacific Wellness Institute today.
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