Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMS & PMDD can make you feel at the whim of our menstrual cycle. Find out how Acupuncture can help you achieve balance.

PMS and PMDD are responses to hormone fluctuations before menstruation.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms can vary widely and can fluctuate in severity from cycle to cycle and across individuals. Common PMS symptoms include

  • Bloating

  • Breast tenderness and distention

  • Headaches

  • Increased irritability or weepiness

  • Increased muscle tension

  • Fatigue

  • Acne

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a more severe response to hormonal fluctuations that result in a serotonin deficiency. Symptoms of PMDD include

  • Emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, depression, poor memory, and emotional lability

  • Abdominal bloating, cramping, nausea

  • Headaches, dizziness

There are few diagnostic tests for PMS and PMDD and are usually diagnosed by ruling out other diseases with similar symptoms such as thyroid disorders, mental disorders, or other reproductive disorders.

PMS and PMDD are often treated with diet and lifestyle changes alone or can be managed with hormonal birth control. PMDD is also commonly treated with SSRI’s.

Chinese Medicine is an effective intervention to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce PMS and PMDD symptoms, and improve period pain. Your acupuncturist will take a personalized approach to treatment, taking into account your most predominant symptoms, to determine the root cause of imbalance.

Acupuncture improves PMS and PMDD symptoms by

  • Regulating circulation of Qi and Blood

  • Decreasing inflammation which can be contributing to premenstrual migraines, headache, or period pain

  • Modulating the nervous system to promote hormonal balance and improve cycle regularity

Living with premenstrual symptoms can feel frustrating and disempowering. While many women in Charleston experience premenstrual symptoms, PMS and PMDD are signs of imbalance in the body and are worthy of investigating and addressing.

Victoria Ansell, LAc., has worked extensively with patients experiencing premenstrual discomfort in her clinic; schedule your phone consult today to see how acupuncture can help you.