Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period. Symptoms often vary between women and resolve around the start of bleeding.
Common symptoms include:
- Acne
- Tender breasts
- Bloating
- Feeling tired
- Irritability
mood changes
Often symptoms are present few days prior to periods. A woman's pattern of symptoms may change over time from mild to severeto negligible. The exact cause of PMS is unknown but is believed to be related to interactions between sex hormones and brain chemicals (neurotransmitters).
Natural treatment options and home remedies for PMS include:
- Exercise
- A healthy lifestyle
- Emotional support from family and friends
Possible medical treatments to treat cramping and other symptoms of PMS include medications such as:
- Diuretics
- Painkillers
- Oral contraceptives
- Drugs that suppress ovarian function
- Antidepressants