As women, we’ve all experienced it at some point: that monthly rollercoaster of emotions, insatiable hunger, and fatigue known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It’s like clockwork, arriving just before our periods and throwing our lives into temporary chaos.
PMS is a complex interplay of hormonal changes and neurotransmitter fluctuations. In clinic, we often see an exacerbation of symptoms around this time too. Things like pain, headaches, complaints and mental health symptoms all come to the party.
It’s common for some to go on hormonal birth control or anti-depressants as a means to treat their PMS symptoms.
What are some ways we can help?
In Chinese medicine, PMS symptoms are often attributed to a rough transition through the cyclical hormonal changes, instead of everything flowing smoothly.
Research suggests that acupuncture may help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce pain, and improve mood during PMS. By targeting key points related to hormonal regulation, digestion, and emotional well-being, acupuncture can help restore balance to the body and alleviate PMS symptoms.
In addition, Chinese herbal medicine offers a vast array of herbal formulas that can be tailored to individual needs and can be commonly used to regulate hormones, reduce cramping, and ease emotional symptoms.
Mei Gui Hua or Chinese Rosebuds are a herb that we use in clinic. These herbs can be made in to a tea to help with irregular menstruation, pre-menstrual tension and breast distention.
Lifestyle changes are also necessary to help regulate hormones and ease monthly tension.
Managing stress levels is crucial to keep our hormones healthy. Being mindful of things that excessively spike cortisol levels and engaging in more self-care and relaxation activities can help keep our systems balanced.
Prioritising quality sleep is important for stabilising hormones and easing irritability and fatigue.
Regular exercise is a good outlet to manage stress and ease symptoms by releasing endorphins, reducing cramps and improving mood.
It’s a good idea to limit alcohol during this time of the cycle due to the negative effects it can have on hormones.
So if you feel like your body takes you hostage once a month, it’s time to take control back over your body.
Start keeping track of all your symptoms and cyclical changes if you’re not already and compare the data after making some of these changes.
Cheers, Liah
Book in with Liah to see how we can help with your PMS!
