Individualized Naturopathic Care for PMS & PMDD
You’ve likely heard of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) before. It is a collection of symptoms that occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase) and resolve within a few days of the onset of a period.
PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a more severe form of PMS in which mood symptoms are particularly debilitating, although physical symptoms are often also present.
Both PMS and PMDD have significant impacts on quality of life including social relationships, home life, and work life.
Common symptoms of PMS and PMDD
Physical symptoms
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes
- Dizziness
Mood and behavioral symptoms
- Mood swings
- Irritability, anger
- Anxiety
- Sadness, hopelessness, depression
- Emotional sensitivity
- Increased appetite, food cravings
A common misconception is that PMS and PMDD can be diagnosed with lab work – they can’t. PMS and PMDD are clinical diagnoses that are established with cycle tracking. The role of lab work here is to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Naturopathic doctors can guide you through this process and, most importantly, support you with effective treatment options.
You don’t need to do this alone.
Many treatment options exist for both PMS and PMDD – these conditions do not need to dominate your reality. You shouldn’t have to live dreading 1 week of every month – that’s not okay and you deserve better support. I am here to listen to you and help you feel better.