PMS

Premenstrual syndrome is a group of symptoms that occurs before menstruation and is severe enough to interfere significantly with daily life. The DSM-5 diagnosis is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) when the dominant symptoms are emotional.

PMS was once regarded as a psychological problem, but researchers now believe it is an organic disorder, although the exact trigger remains uncertain.

Common PMS symptoms include depressed mood, mood swings, irritability, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, edema, breast tenderness, headaches, abdominal bloating, cramps, constipation, joint or muscle pain, food cravings (especially for salt and sweets), and sleep disturbances. Less common symptoms may include acne, palpitations, urinary frequency, and increased thirst.

PMS disappears after menopause and may continue after hysterectomy.

There is no single drug that treats all PMS symptoms in conventional medicine. Commonly prescribed options include antidepressants, diuretics, beta-blockers, NSAIDs such as Advil (ibuprofen), or analgesics such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), oral contraceptives, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, and others.

The cause is unknown in western medicine. It is presumed to involve hormonal imbalance, possibly interacting with neurotransmitters. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, PMS may be a manifestation of underlying conditions stemming from emotional disturbance, modern lifestyle and dietary habits, or congenital constitutional deficiency.

1. Premenstrual exacerbations can occur alongside other conditions such as depression and anxiety.
2. Caffeine and high fluid intake can worsen PMS symptoms.
3. Stress may trigger PMS episodes.
4. PMS tends to increase with age.

1. Discontinue using superabsorbent tampons if you use one, as they can sometimes cause Toxic Shock Syndrome.
2. Increase daily exercise.
3. Stop smoking.
4. Get good sleep.
5. Practice stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep relaxation.
6. Maintain a loving, caring, and positive attitude.
7. Eliminate sweets, coffee, sweetened foods, fried foods, sugar, cold drinks and foods, and alcohol.
8. Reduce intake of meat, beef, milk, dairy products, processed foods, and refined flour or bread.
9. Eat more soy, green vegetables, fruits, low-fat whole-grain foods, high-fiber foods, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and flax seed oil for essential fatty acids.
10. Eat small meals throughout the day.
11. Consider supplementation with vitamin B6, B12, C, and E, evening primrose oil, and magnesium.
12. Embrace this natural cleansing and healing process of menstruation. Treat your body with respect and let it replenish.

Different studies have shown that acupuncture can help regulate hormone secretion, neurotransmitter activity, and metabolic function. These effects may explain the mechanism behind this ancient treatment, though a full understanding has not yet been reached.

There are numerous studies conducted over the past several decades. A study published in November 2002 in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics concluded that 77.8% of women receiving acupuncture for PMS symptoms (including anxiety, phobic disorders, premenstrual headache, breast pain, insomnia, nausea, and gastrointestinal problems) had significant improvement, compared to only 5.9% in the placebo group. PMID: 12410369 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Pain relief can sometimes be felt right after a session, but it is more realistic to expect a longer course of treatment for a lasting resolution if the condition has been chronic. A thorough modification of lifestyle and diet can help reduce the number of treatments needed.

Most acupuncture points do not hurt because the needles are hair-fine. Patients typically feel a brief mosquito-bite sensation that is subtle for most people. Some points tend to be more sensitive than others, and we take extra care with those to avoid discomfort.

$95/session, $45 consultation. 30-45 minute initial consultation.

Alberta Health Care does not cover acupuncture. Most company benefits cover acupuncture when treatment is provided through a Registered Acupuncturist. Contact your HR department or insurance company for coverage details.

Many people in North America, Europe, and China have benefited from acupuncture treatment for PMS. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes PMS as a condition treatable by acupuncture. It is a reasonable natural modality with the potential to help, especially for those who do not respond well to pharmaceutical drugs. “It works for many” does not mean “it works for you.” As for you, there is only one way to find out.