PMS is not just "part of being a woman"

Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, and PMS

Are you one of the estimated 85% of menstruating women who suffer from at least one symptom of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) in the week or two prior to your period? PMS can be mild or manifest itself in the form of severe Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Whether your symptoms are a minor bother or have a large impact on your life, acupuncture treatments can provide relief.

Common symptoms of PMS include:

• tender, swollen breasts
• fatigue or insomnia
• acne
• headaches
• back pain
• cravings, or other changes in appetite
• joint or muscle pain
• cramps
• depression or anxiety
• bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
• mood swings or crying spells
• irritability, anger, or tension

While all of the causes of PMS have not yet been identified, the main factors include the changes in hormones during your cycle, and possible alterations in brain chemistry. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, high salt consumption, alcohol and caffeine use, and other lifestyle factors are thought to worsen symptoms. There is no need to allow PMS to get in the way of your daily activities.

A study published in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics reported that the success rate for treating PMS symptoms with acupuncture was 77.8%, as compared to 5.9% in the placebo group. Some of the women no longer had PMS after 2 acupuncture treatments, depending on the severity of their condition, and compliance with the treatment plan. The researchers concluded that "the positive influence of acupuncture in treating PMS...can be ascribed to its effects on the serotoninergic and opiodergic neurotransmission that modulates various psychosomatic functions".

From a traditional Chinese medical perspective, acupuncture is thought to stabilize hormone levels. In addition, treatments help to encourage relaxation, which harmonizes the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person. By encouraging the body's natural healing mechanisms, balance is achieved, thus alleviating symptoms. Painless menstruation requires proper circulation. Stimulating certain acupuncture points will restore this circulation and ease pressure.

In addition to acupuncture, we will look at the ROOT CAUSE of PMS and examine your lifestyle. Chinese herbal formulas, dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, exercise, and stress reduction techniques will be recommended. For example, many acupuncturists will tell patients to avoid or strictly limit caffeine, alcohol, and sugar in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when PMS occurs.

Unlike medications prescribed to control PMS, such as NSAIDs, acupuncture does not pose a threat of side effects. It is a relatively painless and completely natural way to relieve your discomfort. 

I am always available to consult with you or a loved one or friend to discuss how we can get your painful or erratic cycle under control, and get you back to optimal health and well-being.

Kathy E Thomas

Lake Premier Wellness Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

2430 South Bay Street, Eustis, FL 32726

352-323-0795