Pre-Menstrual Syndrome is real and difficult. It makes relationships harder, work more difficult, and everything else a challenge. No one wants PMS, but many of us have it.
Understanding the different types of PMS can make treating the condition easier, as each subtype stems from a different hormonal constellation. This is why there is no panacea for hormonal mood changes – hormones are complex and interrelated, and unless you are treating the correct imbalance, your results will be less than stellar.
PMS-A (Anxiety) primarily manifests with anxiety, irritability, mood swings and nervous tension. This is common in 65-75% of PMS cases. It is related to high Estrogen and Low Progesterone during the luteal phase (weeks 3 &4.) It is also related to high Epinephrine, Norepinephrine, and Serotonin and decreased Dopamine and Phenylethylamine.
PMS C (Craving) primarily manifests with increased appetite, sweet cravings headache, fatigue, dizziness or fainting and heart palpitations. This presents in 25-35% of women. It is related to increased carbohydrate tolerance, and suggests increased insulin binding tolerance and possible PGE1 deficiency. This can also be a sign of nutrient deficiencies.
PMS D (Depression) is manifested as forgetfulness, depression, crying, confusion and insomnia before menses. PMS D occurs for 23-27% of women. It is related to high and or low Estrogen levels with high Progesterone. Stress induces increased breakdown of neurotransmitters with concurrent high levels of adrenal androgen production. Magnesium supplementation is indicated.
PMS H (Hyperhydration) is the final form of PMS. This is indicated by fluid retention, weight gain > 3 lb, abdominal bloating, breast tenderness and swollen extremities. It is characterized by excess Aldosterone production, stress induced ACTH, Serotonin and Angiotensin 2 production, increased Estrogen and decreased Dopamine levels.
Subtypes of PMS can occur singly, or in combination. Addressing each constellation can require hormonal salivary testing in addition to signs and symptom analysis. For more information on salivary or bloodspot hormone testing and Naturopathic Medicine see http://www.zrtlab.com/test-kits/saliva-testing-kits.html.
True Naturopathic treatment of PMS involves an in-depth assessment of hormonal wellness, PMS subtype, and a physical, psychological and emotional analysis of stress and wellness. For a free questionaire determining primary PMS subtypes please email thewrightnd@gmail.com.
