How Long Does PMS Last?

Introduction: Why PMS Needs a New Approach

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects over 75% of menstruating women, yet it’s often brushed off as “normal.” But when PMS disrupts your mood, sleep, digestion, energy, or relationships—it’s time to look deeper.

At Patients Medical, we don’t just mask symptoms with painkillers or birth control. Our functional and integrative approach identifies the root causes of PMS and restores hormonal balance—naturally.

What Is PMS and How Long Does It Last?

PMS refers to a group of emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms that occur 7–14 days before menstruation and resolve shortly after bleeding begins.

Average Duration of PMS:

  • Begins: 5–10 days before your period
  • Peaks: 1–2 days before your period
  • Ends: Within 24–48 hours of menstruation starting

However, for some women, symptoms can linger through the entire luteal phase or worsen into PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder).

Common Symptoms of PMS

PMS affects every system in your body—from your brain to your gut. You may experience:

What Causes PMS?

PMS is not just a hormonal problem—it’s a whole-body imbalance. Functional medicine uncovers underlying causes like:

  • Estrogen dominance or progesterone deficiency
  • Cortisol imbalance (due to chronic stress)
  • Poor liver detoxification of hormones
  • Nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, B6, omega-3s)
  • Gut dysbiosis or leaky gut
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Blood sugar instability

Diagnostic Testing We Offer

To personalize your care, we perform in-depth labs to assess hormonal and metabolic health:

Comprehensive hormone panels (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol)

Thyroid testing (TSH, free T3/T4, reverse T3, antibodies)

Organic acids and micronutrient testing

Gut health panels (bacteria, yeast, leaky gut markers)

Inflammatory markers (CRP, homocysteine)

Blood sugar testing (fasting glucose, insulin, A1C)

Genetic and MTHFR testing

Integrative Treatments for PMS Relief

Nutritional Therapy

  • Elimination diets to uncover sensitivities
  • Estrogen detox support foods (broccoli, flaxseed, cruciferous veggies)
  • Blood sugar balance with healthy fats and fiber
  • Seed cycling for hormone support

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • B6, B12, magnesium, glutathione
  • Antioxidants for hormone detox
  • Amino acids for neurotransmitter support

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

  • Chasteberry (Vitex): Balances progesterone
  • Magnesium + B6: Reduces cramps and irritability
  • DIM & Calcium D-Glucarate: Supports estrogen detox
  • Rhodiola, ashwagandha: Manage stress and cortisol
  • Omega-3s: Anti-inflammatory and mood-regulating

Mind-Body Support

  • Acupuncture for hormone balance
  • Meditation and breathwork for stress
  • Biofeedback and vagal nerve toning

Hormonal Optimization

When needed, we offer bioidentical hormone therapy to restore optimal estrogen/progesterone balance, especially for PMDD or perimenopause.

Real Case Study: Julia’s PMS Transformation

Julia, 35, came to us with severe PMS—debilitating cramps, panic attacks, and crying spells 10 days before each period. She had tried birth control and antidepressants, with no relief.

What We Found:
  • Estrogen dominance with low progesterone
  • Poor methylation (MTHFR mutation)
  • Magnesium and B6 deficiency
  • Gut imbalance (candida overgrowth)
Her Integrative Plan:
  • Seed cycling and liver support
  • Weekly magnesium IVs
  • Methylated B-vitamin protocol
  • Vitex and DIM supplementation
  • Mindfulness training

After 3 months, her symptoms had reduced by over 70%. By 6 months, she no longer dreaded her cycle.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Usually 7–10 days before your period and ends within a day or two after bleeding begins.

 If PMS lasts more than 10 days, we assess for underlying hormone or adrenal imbalances.

 PMS is a symptom of deeper imbalance. With the right support, symptoms can be dramatically reduced or even eliminated.

 No. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS involving intense emotional symptoms. We offer natural support for both.

 Magnesium-rich foods (leafy greens, pumpkin seeds), cruciferous veggies, omega-3 fats, and fiber help regulate hormones.

 Yes. Stress elevates cortisol, which disrupts estrogen/progesterone balance and worsens PMS.

 While it may mask symptoms, it doesn’t address root causes. We offer natural alternatives.

 Yes. We treat adolescents with gentle, natural options and root-cause testing.

 Absolutely. We design plans that complement your prescriptions safely.

 We are out-of-network, but offer superbills. Many labs are reimbursable.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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