PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME

For some women, the lead-up to their period is associated with uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms. These women suffer from premenstrual syndrome or PMS.

The good news is that good lifestyle choices can help alleviate premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

WHAT IS PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)?

PMS corresponds to a series of marked physical, psychological and emotional symptoms that occur a few days to two weeks before the onset of the menses. Because of their intensity, they can temporarily undermine a woman’s quality of life.

Despite research into the issue, the exact causes of PMS are not clearly understood, but it is believed that those affected are hypersensitive to the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. History of mood disorder or a family history of PMS are said to be risk factors and women in age to procreate are most likely to experience it.

There are currently no tests to screen for PMS with any certainty. To determine if a woman suffers from this syndrome, she must experience certain symptoms for a minimum of three consecutive cycles.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR PMS?

If your symptoms are significantly severe, debilitating, and impacting your daily life, it is advisable to consult with a doctor. A medical professional can assess and exclude underlying conditions, ensuring that your symptoms are effectively managed. Additionally, they can determine whether you might be experiencing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Diagnosing PMS can be challenging, and it is important not to mistake it for dysmenorrhea, characterized by painful cramps in the lower abdomen that may occur at the onset of each menstrual period.

Given the diverse range of symptoms associated with PMS, maintaining a journal to record symptom details, including their intensity and timing, can be beneficial. This documentation aids in identifying patterns related to your menstrual cycle and assists in differentiating PMS from other potential mood disorders such as depression.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PMS?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) manifests with a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that typically arise 7 to 10 days before the onset of menstruation and subside with the start of the menstrual period. These symptoms emerge approximately one week before ovulation.

The emotional and psychological symptoms associated with PMS encompass:

  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Anger and tension
  • Feelings of depression
  • Fatigue or insomnia
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Trouble concentrating

The physical symptoms may involve:

  • Breast tenderness
  • Bloating due to water retention
  • Slight weight gain
  • Abdominal pain or cramps
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Cravings, particularly for sweet foods

HOW TO RELIEVE THE SYMPTOMS OF PMS?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the primary approach to managing PMS symptoms.

Implement stress management techniques, including practices like yoga, massage, acupuncture, or deep breathing. Consulting a psychologist can also be beneficial.
Maintain a nutritious diet with regular and balanced meals.
Establish good sleep habits.
Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, at least 5 times per week.
Reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and sodium (salt).
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Seek assistance from your pharmacist or doctor if quitting is challenging, as they can guide you to appropriate resources.
Steer clear of recreational drugs, particularly cocaine.

If these lifestyle adjustments do not effectively alleviate PMS symptoms, your doctor may consider prescribing medication. When medication is prescribed, priority is typically given to addressing the most troublesome symptoms, as each drug tends to relieve specific symptoms. Your doctor or pharmacist can guide you in selecting the most suitable treatment based on your overall health and individual needs. Keep in mind that your response to medication may differ from others, and it may be necessary to try multiple drugs before finding the most effective one.

While some women turn to vitamin supplements like magnesium or calcium, or natural health products such as evening primrose oil to manage PMS symptoms, their effectiveness lacks scientific confirmation. Additionally, these products can induce side effects and interact with certain medications. Consult with your pharmacist before incorporating them into your regimen.

THE SEVERE CASE: PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER

Your pharmacist is available to answer any questions you may have about taking medications, natural products, or vitamins during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and to offer advice on how to ease certain pregnancy-related symptoms like sleep disorders, nausea, or reflux. Some pharmacies offer private consultations with a pharmacist who can assess your personal situation. Feel free to schedule an appointment!