Premenstrual Syndrome
> HORMONAL HEALTH
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is characterized by mood changes, irritability, water retention, breast tenderness, cramping pain which usually begins to 7 to 10 days before menses. There are many causes of PMS, ranging from hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition and nutrition deficiencies. Conventional treatment consists of pain killers, mood-stabilizing drugs and oral contraceptive pills to regulate hormones. These aren’t the only ways to treat PMS. Let’s look at how naturopathic medicine can address PMS.
Diet
Diet can play a major role in regulating hormonal imbalances that cause PMS. A diet high in healthy fats and protein can help to create and regulate hormones. A diet high in fiber can optimize digestive function and help eliminate excessive hormones.
Botanical Medicine
Botanical medicine is a cornerstone, therapeutic tool for women suffering from PMS. There are many plants and herbs that not only address the symptoms of PMS but can also regulate the root cause. One of the greatest advantages of botanical medicine is that one herb can have many therapeutic actions. For example, Chamomile is a well-known herb and is known for calming the mind, aiding in digestion, and helps decrease menstrual cramping and pain – making it a great herb for women with PMS. Keeping this in mind, botanical medicine is ideal as it can help address many symptoms and the root cause simultaneously.
Lifestyle
Studies have shown that women who feel stressed early in their monthly cycle are also more likely to have more pronounced symptoms before and during menses. This means that stress can influence PMS in major ways. Therefor addressing the role of stress in PMS is important and treatment should be reflective of it.
How can naturopathic medicine help?
If you’re suffering from PMS, naturopathic medicine can help you feel better. Dr. Swalah, ND believes in the importance of determining the hormonal connection. Female hormones play a huge role in all menstrual related issues. “Don’t guess, let’s test to address!” is the mentality and perspective Dr. Swalah brings to the table. By understanding how the hormones are working, if it is underactive or overactive, can provide unique insight and determine what treatment options are available. Learn more about hormone testing here >>
The goal of therapy is to determine the underlying hormonal imbalances. Correcting and balancing hormones will simultaneously address the root and signs and symptoms. By using this approach, Dr. Swalah ND makes PMS much more manageable and tolerable.
By using natural remedies like custom diet plans, stress management tools, botanical medicine, and nutraceutical support, Dr. Swalah is able to balance hormones and decrease PMS symptoms.