NYC’s Leading Integrative Health Care Center
NYC’s Leading Integrative Health Care Center
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects a significant number of women, causing physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that can disrupt daily life. At Patients Medical, we understand that PMS is more than just “a few bad days” each month. Our integrative approach combines conventional treatments and holistic strategies to target the root causes of PMS, improving your well-being and minimizing the need for medications when possible.
PMS is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms that typically occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation and before menstruation. It affects women of all ages and can range from mild to severe symptoms, which may include bloating, mood swings, fatigue, headaches, and irritability. In some cases, PMS can be debilitating, significantly impacting quality of life.
While lifestyle changes, diet, and stress management can help alleviate symptoms of PMS, some women may need medications to manage more severe symptoms. These are the primary classes of medications used to treat PMS:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen help manage pain, including headaches, cramps, and muscle aches commonly associated with PMS. They work by reducing inflammation in the body and blocking pain signals.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are often prescribed for women experiencing severe emotional symptoms like mood swings, depression, and irritability. These medications help regulate serotonin levels, which play a key role in mood stability.
Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) are commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hormonal fluctuations that contribute to PMS symptoms. Hormonal therapy can help prevent ovulation, reduce menstrual cramps, and manage mood swings by stabilizing hormone levels.
Diuretics, often referred to as “water pills,” help relieve bloating and fluid retention associated with PMS. They work by promoting the elimination of excess salt and water from the body, which can ease feelings of heaviness and swelling.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is another over-the-counter pain reliever that can be used to manage mild PMS-related pain. While it doesn’t reduce inflammation, it is effective for treating headaches and mild discomfort.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are prescribed for severe cases of PMS, particularly when the symptoms are related to hormonal imbalances. These medications reduce estrogen production, which can help alleviate PMS symptoms but are typically used short-term due to side effects.
Functional medicine aims to understand the underlying causes of PMS, rather than just masking symptoms. These root causes may include:
To identify the underlying causes of PMS and tailor treatment plans, we use advanced diagnostic testing:
A balanced diet can significantly reduce PMS symptoms. We may recommend:
Certain herbs and supplements have been shown to alleviate PMS symptoms:
We offer holistic treatments such as:
We help balance hormones using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and lifestyle changes to alleviate hormonal fluctuations and their impact on PMS.
Emily, age 34, had been suffering from severe PMS symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, and bloating. Despite trying conventional treatments, her symptoms remained overwhelming. After comprehensive testing, we found hormonal imbalances, including low progesterone levels, and deficiencies in magnesium and vitamin B6.
We developed a personalized treatment plan that included:
After just two months, Emily’s PMS symptoms significantly improved, and she felt more balanced and energetic throughout the month.
Yes, PMS can often be managed with diet changes, stress reduction techniques, and natural supplements. Medication may be necessary for more severe cases.
The best medications vary depending on the severity of symptoms. Common options include NSAIDs for pain, SSRIs for emotional symptoms, and hormonal therapies for regulating cycles.
Severe PMS symptoms are not uncommon, but they are not something you have to live with. Treatments and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce their severity.
Yes, improving diet, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can all help reduce PMS symptoms.
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to notice significant improvements with integrative treatments, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Hormonal therapies, including birth control and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, can help regulate hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of PMS.
Yes, acupuncture has been shown to reduce symptoms such as pain, mood swings, and bloating by promoting balance and reducing stress.
A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, vitamins, and minerals can help alleviate PMS symptoms by reducing inflammation and balancing hormones.
We are an out-of-network provider, but we provide superbills for insurance reimbursement. Some tests may be partially covered by insurance.
If lifestyle changes and natural treatments are not providing relief, medication may be necessary. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your symptoms.
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.
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
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1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128
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