PMS / PMDD
Premenstrual syndrome is characterized by a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that happen days to weeks prior to menstruation, and typically resolve when you start bleeding.
Common symptoms include:
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We think that shifts in hormones (like Estrogen and Progesterone), as well as Neurotransmitters (like Serotonin and Dopamine), are the primary drivers of PMS, or its more severe cousin, PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder).
Conventional Approach: Treat The Symptoms, Risk the Side Effects
If you’ve complained about PMS-related symptoms to a conventional doctor, you’ve likely been offered oral contraception, SSRI’s (Serotonin Selective Re-uptake Inhibitor, e.g. Prosac), Benzodiazpenes (like Xanax), and/or diuretics. Unfortunately, many of these options either have their own side effects, encourage dependance, or are just not useful enough to manage this dark phase in your cycle.
Alternatives: Begin by Flowing into your Flow
The second half of your cycle is a time when your body might need more restorative practices. At DCIM, we can counsel you toward alternative lifestyle choices… say, a flow yoga class vs a spin class. We also develop optimal nutritional plans that emphasize, for example, avoiding refined sugars and incorporating organic, clean, and whole foods. We also identify additional activities and practices to help your body help you, like increasing your meditation and wind down routines before bed.
Then, Targeted Nutrients
Targeted nutrients like Vitamin B6, Magnesium, and Calcium can be ideal, first-line treatments as they are often effective and well-tolerated.
But You May Need More:
If you are not getting enough of a benefit from targeted nutrients and lifestyle changes, it’s time for us to dig deeper. Depending on your case, we may look into Candida overgrowth, Progesterone deficiency, and other sources of inflammation. Accordingly, candida treatment, chaste berry or Bio-identical progesterone, Omega 3 fatty acids and Curcumin can lead to success. Instead of suppressing symptoms and risking worse side-effects, we will work to find the root cause of your discomfort and optimally support your PMS!
About DCIM
The team at District Center for Integrative Medicine specializes in helping patients get to the root cause of their conditions. If you’re looking for 1-on-1 help from naturopathic doctors who care, request a free consultation today!
