PMDD / PMS Relief Products
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a premenstrual syndrome that produces physical and behavioral symptoms that often resolve with the onset or conclusion of menstruation. PMDD often causes mood shifts that can disrupt work and influence relationships.
Emotional symptoms include sadness, hopelessness, irritability, or anger, paired with common premenstrual syndrome symptoms such as breast tenderness, fatigue, and bloating.
The following educational information and recommended products stem from an integrative medicine model for mental health and counseling and are meant to support the emotional and physical effects of PMDD and PMS.
*Note: The following information is based on research and is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. You should always consult a doctor before starting a supplement protocol.
Supplements
1,200 milligrams (mg) calcium daily can help ease physical and emotional symptoms of PMDD/PMS.
360 mg can help ease relax muscles, reduce breast soreness and, minimize bloating.
400 international units (IU) daily can help reduce prostaglandins in the body, which are known to cause pain.
50 to 100 mg B6 daily can help ease fatigue, irritability, and insomnia. Since, B vitamins work synergistically in the body and are best taken as a complex
Herbal Supplements
According to an article published in American Family Physician, EPO is the most studied herb for PMS and there appears to be some benefit in taking 500 to 1,000 mg daily.
Some women with the premenstrual syndrome have elevated prolactin levels. Chasteberry may reduce prolactin production and therefore reduce reduce breast pain
Viewed as a natural antidepressant, St. John’s wort may help reduce anxiety, depression, and irritability. It may also ease some physical symptoms of PMDD.
*Note: St. John’s Wort may lower the effectiveness of hormonal birth control pills and other prescription medications including blood thinners, anticonvulsants, HIV medications.
A 2010 study, showed taking 40 mg of Ginkgo three times daily reduced PMS symptoms including bloating, fatigue, and insomnia better than a placebo. This herb is also thought to help neurotransmitter release in the brain, which supports cognitive function and clarity.