4 types of PMS
PMS or premenstrual syndrome refers to the mood, behavioural and physical symptoms women experience during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
But did you know PMS can be broken down into 4 different categories? As a naturopath, we like to get to the root cause of health issues so we can treat the issue of what is going on and hopefully say goodbye to the symptoms for good. So when looking into the 4 different types of PMS it is sort of the same, as we would treat PMS-C different from PMS-D. Treating the issue directly and to the root allows us to see more successful results.
So what are the 4 types of PMS I hear you asking?
The four categories of PMS
Anxiety (PMT-A)
Hyperhydration/bloating (PMT-H)
Carbohydrate cravings (PMT-C)
Depression (PMT-D)
Anxiety (PMT-A)
Anywhere from 66 to 80 % of women who experience PMS has PMT-A symptoms. Symptoms include anxiety, nervous and irritability throughout your luteal phase. Once your period starts these symptoms often disappear very quickly.
Hyperhydration/bloating (PMT-H)
About 60 % of women who experience PMS often fall into the PMT-H category. PMT-H is characterised by water and salt retention and is associated with premenstrual weight gain, abdominal bloating, breast tenderness and some edema in your hands and feet.
Carbohydrate cravings (PMT-C)
Anywhere from 24 to 44% of women suffer from these symptoms. Generally, those who have PMT-C will experience sweet cravings, increased appetite and overall increased refined carbohydrate intake as their period draws closer. This can be very common in those who have PCOS but it can also lead to unstable blood glucose levels that can lead to fatigue, headaches, heart palpitations, dizziness and even fainting spells.
Depression (PMT-D)
Up to 23% if women with PMS suffer from PMT-D which is associated with symptoms of depression, social withdrawal and suicidal ideation in the most serious form. You may also experience forgetfulness, confusion, brain fog, tearfulness and insomnia.
WHAT CAN WE DO
Magnesium
Throughout our luteal phase (ovulation to period) our magnesium demands increase and supplementing with magnesium during this phase can be extremely beneficial in reducing PMS symptoms especially hormonal migraines, fluid retention and weight gain.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 deficiency impairs normal tryptophan metabolism which increases your risk of depression. Supplementing with B6 has been shown to significantly reduce PMS symptoms and women who consume foods rich in vitamin b have a lower risk of developing PMS.
Vitex
This herb has been used for years for a variety of reproductive and menstrual conditions that are associated with hormonal imbalances. Vitex has been shown to reduce PMS symptoms such as irritability, anger, headaches and breast tenderness.
Did you know 90% of women who have a menstrual cycle have experienced PMS?
Just because it's common doesn’t mean its normal.
If you are experiencing these symptoms don't suffer in silence, book a complimentary discovery call and learn more about how naturopathy may be able to support you.