Pre-menstrual syndrome which is commonly referred to as PMS is extremely common and is the term to describe the physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman’s period/menstruation.

It is an incredibly common imbalance and usually relates to low levels of progesterone, the hormone which is produced in the second part of the cycle (post ovulation). When the balance of estrogen and progesterone in this phase of ovulation is disturbed, this can cause physical and mood-related symptoms.

Who Experiences PMS?

Most women who have a menstrual cycle experience cyclical symptoms, such as painful breasts, bloating, headaches, fatigue, mood swings, irritability and increased appetite which can be easily managed. PMS symptoms are usually not very severe and most women cope well with them, however, for some women, these can be severe and impact how they go about their everyday lives. Symptoms of PMS can often become more severe and begin to impact on the personal or professional lives of the woman suffering from these symptoms. The good news is that it is a totally treatable imbalance and so women don’t need to suffer from PMS.

What Are The Symptoms of PMS?

Symptoms of PMS can vary person to person and not everyone suffers from the same symptoms. Common symptoms of PMS include:

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Anger
• Abdominal bloating and cramping
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Back pain
• Food cravings
• Cramping
• Weight gain

How is PMS treated with Bio-identical Hormones?

Before bioidentical hormones are used to treat PMS, you need full evaluation of the symptoms and a comprehensive female hormone profile in the second part of a woman’s cycle needs to be performed. This helps to establish whether there is an abnormal hormonal imbalance. If there is, the relevant bio-identical hormones can then be used at a dosage tailored to the individual’s needs. With this treatment, patients generally see their symptoms start to decrease and this enables them to establish a better quality of life.

It is important to note that there is a separate condition called PMDD which manifests as even more severe symptoms. You can find out more about PMDD here!