Our ObGyns help you tame premenstrual syndrome, PMS, symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome affects nearly 85% of menstruating women to some degree. PMS can be mild or manifest itself all the way to premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD. You might be a teenager just beginning to experience symptoms or someone who’s been battling the condition for a long time. No matter what your age, our all-female team of caring physicians at Women’s Integrated Healthcare stands ready to help.

Effects of premenstrual syndrome

PMS occurs when the endocrine system manufactures hormones that control your menstrual cycle. But the hormonal changes may make you feel anything except under control. PMS can cause bloating, breast tenderness, crying jags, anxiety or depression, weight gain and a variety of other unwanted effects. You may have been told “it’s all in your head” or “just deal with it.” But our compassionate team of ObGyns knows your symptoms can be very real and, most importantly, are treatable.

Diagnosing premenstrual syndrome

Our ObGyns will perform the proper tests to accurately diagnose the cause and severity of your symptoms. Sometimes anxiety and depression disorders, and even thyroid conditions, can mimic PMS. While medical experts still have not pinpointed why PMS affects certain women and not others, the cause in some cases may just be genetic. You could be prone if you have a close family member with a history of PMS. Keeping a brief PMS journal for two or three months and bringing it to your appointment will help give a clear picture. Record the dates of your period, severity of your symptoms and when they occurred.

Premenstrual syndrome is indicated when symptoms:

• Are present five days before a period, at least three menstrual cycles in a row
• End within four days of when the period starts
• Interfere with normal activities

Treatment of PMS, PMDD

Our ObGyns offer you a number of options for treating PMS and PMDD. They can guide you in trying some self-care that benefits your overall well-being:

• Eat a variety of healthful foods that includes low-fat dairy, protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Exercise at least 2½ hours each week (30 minutes a day, five days a week).
• Sleep seven to eight hours each night.
• Practice relaxation and meditation techniques.

Additional remedies may include over-the-counter pain medications (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), or alternative therapies such as vitamins and supplements. In more severe cases, our physicians may prescribe medications to overcome symptoms.

Contact us

Don’t just live with PMS and PMDD. Our experienced team of ObGyns treats all types of women’s health conditions and can answer your questions in a sensitive and caring manner. Contact us today to start your treatment plan. New to the offices? Go to our Resource page to streamline your first visit and learn about our convenient online patient portal.