Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)PMS Treatment |
Physician-developed and -monitored. Original Date of Publication: 01 Nov 2000
|
|
Original Source: http://www.womenshealthchannel.com/pms/treatment.shtml | |
|
Home » Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) » PMS Treatment | 
 |
Treatment of PMS focuses on relieving symptoms and involves exercise, dietary changes, and medication.
Exercise
Exercise has a profound effect on hormones, including those involved in the menstrual cycle. Women who exercise experience less anger and depression. Exercise also reduces stress, which worsens PMS symptoms. Women, especially those who experience PMS, are encouraged to exercise regularly, 20-45 minutes, 3 times a week.
Nutrition
It is not clear how dietary changes affect PMS. Some studies show that drinking tea and increasing carbohydrates during the weeks preceding menstruation is helpful. Carbohydrates increase the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin (the low level of serotonin has been linked to PMS-related depression). Some nutritionists recommend vitamins, especially vitamin B6. Reducing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine, refined sugar, salt, dairy products, and animal fats may also be beneficial. A professional nutritionist or dietician can advise women on dietary changes that may relieve symptoms.
Stress reduction
Stress reduction can help reduce PMS symptoms. Physical trainers and physical therapists can help women incorporate exercise and movement into their lives. A counselor or therapist can provide advice on reducing stress as well.
When exercise, diet, and other lifestyle changes have not helped, medication may be effective.
- Alprazolam may alleviate depressive and anxiety symptoms in some patients. It is taken orally and can be addictive.
- Fluoxetine (Prozac) reduces PMS symptoms when taken (20 mg per day, orally) during the menstrual cycle. It is well tolerated.
- GnRH agonist improves symptoms in most patients. It increases the risk for osteoporosis and is used only for a short time.
- Spironalactone has mixed results. It is taken orally.
YAZ® is a combination birth control pill approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that effectively prevents pregnancy; treats emotional and physical symptoms of PMS; and also can cause shorter, lighter, and more regular menstrual periods.
© 1998-2009 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) (continued...)
|
|
Browser Comments
|
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Resources
 | Join Our PMS Forum
Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others. |
|
|
 | Living with...Share your story
Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections. | ||
|
Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. | |||
 | Stay Updated
Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you. | ||
To quickly access health information from your website's browser,
| |||
email this
