What is Premenstrual Syndrome?

Why PMS Needs a New Approach

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects millions of women every month—yet it’s often brushed off as “normal.” At Patients Medical in New York City, we believe you shouldn’t have to suffer through painful periods, mood swings, and fatigue every cycle. Using integrative, functional, and holistic medicine, we uncover the root causes of PMS to help you feel balanced, empowered, and symptom-free—naturally.

We treat more than hormones—we treat the whole person.
What Is Premenstrual Syndrome?
PMS refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur 1-2 weeks before menstruation and resolve with your period.

Types of PMS:

  • PMS-A (Anxiety): Irritability, mood swings
  • PMS-C (Cravings): Sugar cravings, fatigue
  • PMS-D (Depression): Sadness, brain fog
  • PMS-H (Hydration): Bloating, breast tenderness
  • PMDD: Severe, debilitating symptoms affecting daily life

 

Common Symptoms of PMS

Root Causes: Why Is Your PMS So Severe?

Functional medicine identifies why your body overreacts to hormonal shifts:

  • Estrogen Dominance: Excess estrogen relative to progesterone
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Low magnesium, B6, zinc, omega-3s
  • Blood Sugar Imbalances: Insulin spikes worsen mood swings
  • Gut-Liver Axis Dysfunction: Poor estrogen detoxification
  • Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Low serotonin, GABA
  • Chronic Stress: Depletes progesterone, worsens inflammation

Advanced Diagnostic Testing

We use cutting-edge labs to pinpoint your PMS triggers:

DUTCH Hormone Test (estrogen, progesterone metabolites)

Micronutrient Panel (magnesium, B vitamins, zinc)

Blood Sugar & Insulin Tests (fasting glucose, HbA1c)

Gut Health Analysis (microbiome, zonulin for leaky gut)

Neurotransmitter Testing (serotonin, GABA, dopamine)

Thyroid Panel (TSH, free T3/T4, antibodies)

Integrative Treatments for PMS

Hormone Balancing

  • Vitex (Chasteberry): Supports progesterone production
  • DIM & Calcium-D-Glucarate: Promotes estrogen detox
  • Bioidentical Progesterone (if deficient)

Nutritional Therapy

  • Anti-inflammatory diet (rich in cruciferous veggies, flaxseeds)
  • Targeted supplements (magnesium glycinate, omega-3s, vitamin B6)

Gut-Liver Support

  • Liver detox protocols (milk thistle, NAC)
  • Probiotics for estrogen metabolism

Stress & Mood Support

  • Adaptogens (rhodiola, ashwagandha)
  • 5-HTP or GABA for serotonin support

Pain & Inflammation Relief

  • Acupuncture for cramp relief
  • Turmeric & Ginger (natural COX-2 inhibitors)

Real Case Study: Emily’s Path to Hormone Balance

Emily, 34, came to us experiencing severe PMS—irritability, bloating, migraines, and fatigue every month. Her gynecologist had recommended birth control pills, but she wanted a natural alternative. Testing showed estrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies in magnesium and B6.

Her 3-month integrative plan included:

  • A hormone-supportive diet with seed cycling
  • Magnesium and B6 supplements
  • Vitex and DIM for hormone metabolism
  • Stress-reduction with acupuncture and ashwagandha
  • Weekly IV therapy for nutrient replenishment

Within three cycles, her PMS symptoms had improved by 80%, and she reported feeling “like herself again.”

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Many women find complete or significant relief using natural methods like hormone balancing, nutrition, and stress management.

PMDD is a more severe form of PMS with intense mood changes and functional impairment. We treat both with customized, root-cause approaches.

 Most women feel significant improvement within 2–3 menstrual cycles after starting treatment.

 Absolutely. Sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can worsen hormonal symptoms. We guide you through healing with food.

 Hormone panels (progesterone, estrogen, DHEA, cortisol), thyroid tests, and nutrient levels are essential starting points.

 Yes. We use neurotransmitter support, adaptogens, and natural therapies to ease mood swings without pharmaceuticals.

 Yes. A healthy gut is essential for metabolizing estrogen and maintaining balance.

 Yes. We can support your body naturally alongside your current medications and guide any transitions.

 Yes. Our treatments are safe, gentle, and often ideal for younger patients seeking natural options.

We are an out-of-network provider but provide superbills for possible reimbursement. Many lab tests may be partially covered.

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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