PMT (or PMS) stands for premenstrual tension or syndrome and are terms used to describe the psychological and physical changes women experience in the days before their monthly period.
Most women suffer with PMT to some degree, with around a third claiming that PMT significantly affects their lives.
Monthly hormone changes, such as the increase in progesterone women experience shortly before their period are thought to be responsible for causing the symptoms of PMT.
However, some studies suggest that external factors such as stress and certain lifestyle choices play a part in causing PMT. For example, PMT is more common in women who have children and those who eat a poor diet and exercise infrequently.
One or more of the following symptoms can appear as far in advance as 14 days before a period, but symptoms normally subside once the bleeding starts:
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Feelings of irritability & bad tempered
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Mood swings
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Feeling upset or emotional
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Excessive feelings of stress and panic
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Tender, swollen breasts
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Headaches/migraine
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Stomach bloating
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Stomach cramps
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Clumsiness
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Tiredness
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Poor concentration
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Crying for no particular reason
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Tearfulness
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Food cravings
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Back ache
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Feelings of aggression
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Acne outbreaks
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Fluid retention
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Weight gain
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Homeopathy has been traditionally used to manage the symptoms of PMT, and useful remedies include Nat mur, Sepia and Pulsatilla which can be very effective in treating PMT. (Always read the label.)
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Bach Original Flower Remedies such as Rescue Remedy provide support at emotionally demanding times to restore calm and manage your daily stresses. The following flower remedies can also help to balance your emotions (always read the label):
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Impatiens is great for if you’re feeling irritable and frustrated.
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Mustard will provide support if you’re feeling down in the dumps for no reason.
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Olive will help if you find yourself feeling overly tired in everyday situations.
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Body balance work, such as yoga and shiatsu, has been found by many women to help relieve tension and promote relaxation.
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Aromatherapy can be very beneficial in improving emotional wellbeing. Roman Chamomile, Lavender, Peppermint, Geranium, Juniper, Sandalwood & Ylang Ylang in particular can be useful. 5Treat yourself to an aromatherapy massage or just add a few drops of one of the above oils to a warm bath.
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Acupuncture, reflexology and reiki can be good for addressing the emotional imbalances associated with PMT.
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Some women find that vitamins & supplements* such as Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Calcium & Evening Primrose Oil can help relieve some PMT symptoms.
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Warmth can help relieve the physical symptoms of PMT by relaxing tense stomach and back muscles. Try applying heat pads or a hot water bottle to your lower abdomen and lower back. A long, warm bath can also be a great way to unwind and ease the pain.
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Taking regular exercise can help lift PMT symptoms as it releases mood enhancing endorphins that will make you feel good about yourself and the world around you.
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Eating a balanced diet will keep your blood sugar levels constant, preventing mood swings and cravings. Avoid going for more than three hours without food and cut down on your sugar and salt intake.
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Drink plenty of water to reduce bloating. If bloating is a particular problem, try taking water tablets.
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Cut down on caffeine and alcohol as these substances can make PMT symptoms worse.
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Get enough sleep when you have symptoms of PMT. Try getting an early night rather than watching an extra hour of TV when you’re feeling low.
* A supplement must not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
† Medical referral is advisable if symptoms worsen or persist.
∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.
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