What is premenstrual syndrome?

Premenstrual syndrome is defined as cyclical symptoms during the second half of the menstrual cycle, with the first half of the cycle being free from symptoms. As many as 80% of menstruating women suffer from premenstrual symptoms with symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, depression, breast tenderness and cramps. Although there is no clear cause of premenstrual syndrome, factors which may contribute to PMS are hormonal imbalances, unhealthy eating, and lifestyle stressors.

Are there any non-drug ways to alleviate symptoms?

Some simple ways that you can alleviate monthly PMS symptoms include:

• Reduce your intake of alcohol, caffeine, salt, sugar, refined carbohydrates and dairy products.
• Exercise regularly.
• Effectively manage stress.

How can naturopathic medicine further help me?

By addressing your individual symptoms, we can not only assist with symptomatic relief, but work together with you to make important lifestyle changes such as dietary changes, developing an effective stress management plan and regular exercise. In addition, many women suffering from premenstrual syndrome find Chinese medicine to be very effective. By addressing the root cause of the premenstrual symptoms, we can stop them without simply symptomatic relief. PMS is an ideal condition to address naturally, and together, we can address this condition through a comprehensive, long-term plan. Naturopathic medicine can assist you with becoming PMS free, without drugs.

How can chiropractic care help me?

Chiropractic manipulation has been found to provide symptomatic relief of PMS. Spinal adjustments along with soft tissue therapy delivered during the ten days prior to menstruation were found to provide relief for symptoms including bloating and swelling, breast tenderness, low back pain, abdominal pain, headache, irritability, and food cravings

Areas that may be addressed when adjusting the patient include those areas of the spine involved in innervation of the breasts and pelvic organs. Improvements in symptoms have mainly been found with adjustments of lumbar and sacroiliac joints as pelvic dysfunction has been linked to some symptoms of PMS.

Other health care practices that may provide relief for the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include neurolymphatic stimulation, reflexology, and pharmacological intervention.