The question about the best medication for PMS, mood swings, depression and anxiety is a common but difficult one. If you are looking for top-notch supplements that can improve your PMDD symptoms and help you sleep better at night, then you came to the right place.
Vitamins are one of the most important supplements that people need to take on a regular basis, especially women if they have PMDD. Most doctors recommend taking vitamin B 6 and B 12 , but there are others that are recommended as well.
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Are you suffering from PMDD? The symptoms of PMDD include mood swings, depression and anxiety, overreaction to stress, difficulty concentrating and relationships can be very challenging. I’m here to tell you that it’s not an impossible task to get your PMS under control. There are many solutions out there, in fact there is no shortage of them whatsoever. But the trickiest part about beating PMS is deciding which ones actually work best for you.
Pms is a condition in which you experience unpleasant or painful mood swings. These mood swings can be intense, disruptive, and very difficult to cope with. However, there are many solutions to this problem and the best treatment depends on what kind of pms you have.
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Have you been struggling with pre mature menopause? If yes, then you must be familiar with peri mal Periods maladies. These pills help to treat PMS symptoms like mood swings and in some cases even PMDD.
I’m very excited to share with you my top 5 supplements for PMS. You see, I had to find a way to make my life better again because there is no cure for PMS. When I found out about these supplements, it was like a miracle had occurred in my life. They changed everything!
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Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a type of premenstrual syndrome. It causes irritability, anxiety, and fatigue. Medications are available to treat the disorder, but some people may prefer to try natural treatments first to reduce stress, enhance relaxation, and alleviate symptoms.
According to some estimates, between 3 and 8 percent of women of reproductive age have premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The actual number may be higher, though, because doctors may have misdiagnosed some people.
PMDD has many of the same symptoms as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but they tend to be much more intense and may make it hard for some people to function in everyday life.
Below are the 12 best natural treatment options for PMDD.
Natural treatments for PMDD
The following remedies may be effective alternatives to medications for PMDD:
- Meditation
Meditation may help to relieve stress and treat PMDD.
Stress can make PMDD worse.
To reduce stress and ease other symptoms of PMDD, including anxiety and depression, practice daily meditation.
Meditation involves focusing on the breath to stay grounded in the present moment.
Regular meditation can help individuals relax and get relief from both physical and emotional symptoms.
To start meditating:
join a guided meditation class
watch a video on YouTube
download a meditation app
Aim to meditate for at least 10 minutes each morning and evening.
- Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses fragrant plant oils to provide physical and psychological benefits. Evidence showing the benefits of aromatherapy is mixed, but many people claim it helps them deal with stress, pain, and sleep problems.
Some of the most popular oils for PMDD include:
chamomile
clary sage
geranium
lavender
neroli
rose
Add the diluted oils to bathwater, place a few drops in an oil diffuser, dilute in a carrier oil and use as a massage oil, or inhale the scent directly from the bottle.
There is a selection of chamomile, clary sage, geranium, lavender, neroli, and rose essential oils available for purchase online.
- Warm bath
Warm baths are relaxing and can encourage sleep. The warm water also alleviates menstrual cramps. Enjoy a 20-minute soak before bed to address PMDD symptoms.
Use soothing scents and play relaxing music to enhance the effects of a nighttime bath.
- Exercise
Research suggests that regular exercise is beneficial for premenstrual symptoms. One study showed that regular exercise for PMS decreased pain and increased mood.
For best results, engage in a mix of aerobic activities and strength training each week. The Physical Activity Guidelines for AmericansTrusted Source recommends that all adults aim for at least:
150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity weekly
strength-based activities that work all the major muscle groups, 2 or more days a week
- Different menstrual products
Menstrual cups are popular as an eco-friendly and hygienic alternative to tampons.
Some menstrual products can worsen PMDD symptoms in some people.
Tampons may cause more cramping and lower abdominal pain. Scented pads and pantyliners might irritate those with sensitive skin.
It might help to experiment with different menstrual products.
Try changing to organic cotton pads and pantyliners, for example, or use menstrual cups.
There is a selection of menstrual cups available for purchase online.
- Yoga
A 2016 studyTrusted Source suggests that 12 weeks of yoga may:
improve menstrual pain and physical function
significantly decrease abdominal swelling, cramps, and breast tenderness
enhance general health perception, energy levels, and mental health
The results of this study were based on classes designed specifically for women with PMS, but regular yoga classes should also help those with PMS and PMDD.
Other research supports yoga and exercise in general in being beneficial to reducing symptoms.
- Sleep
Lack of sleep can contribute to low mood, fatigue, and increased sensitivity to pain. To reduce PMDD symptoms:
go to bed the same time each night and get up at the same time each day
aim to sleep for 7 to 9 hours a night
avoid prolonged daytime naps
do not have caffeine or high-sugar foods and drinks in the hours before bed
limit alcohol intake, especially close to bedtime
turn off the TV and computer at least an hour before bedtime
ensure bedroom temperatures are between 60-67°F
take a warm bath, listen to relaxing music, or read a book before bed
See a doctor for treatment. If disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea are interfering with sleep
- Diet
People can manage PMS symptoms with a healthful diet. It is likely that PMDD symptoms, such as anxiety and bloating, will also improve through dietary changes.
Eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day to keep blood sugar levels on an even keel. Drinking plenty of water will also help reduce bloating.
- Supplements
If it is not possible to get the recommended levels of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from food, it can help to take dietary supplements.
People with premenstrual symptoms may benefit from taking supplements of:
calcium
magnesium
vitamin E
vitamin B6
Individuals should always talk to their doctor before using supplements for PMDD or other disorders, especially if they are taking other medications or have another health condition.
There is a selection of calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, and vitamin B6 supplements available for purchase online.
- Herbal remedies
Evening primrose oil is a popular treatment for PMDD.
People have used herbal remedies for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including hormone-related conditions.
Some people report benefitting from their use, although there is no scientific evidence to suggest that herbs effectively treat PMDD or PMS.
Herbal supplements commonly taken include:
chasteberry
evening primrose oil
gingko
St. John’s wort
Herbal remedies can cause adverse reactions and may interact with other medications.
For example, taking St. John’s wort with certain antidepressants can resultTrusted Source in a life-threatening increase in serotonin levels. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps control many bodily functions, including mood.
Only take herbal medicines in consultation with a doctor or qualified natural health practitioner. Choose products carefully and by reputation of the manufacturer. Some herbs are drugs and can interact with medications prescribed by the doctor.
There is a selection of chasteberry, evening primrose oil, gingko, and St. John’s wort herbal supplements available for purchase online.
- Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific parts of the body. It is thought to increase blood flow and promote the body’s innate self-healing process.
An analysisTrusted Source of randomized controlled trials on acupuncture for PMS reports that the therapy shows promise for symptom relief. More high-quality studies are needed to confirm this.
Acupuncture is, nonetheless, a low-risk treatment option that may provide benefits for some people with PMS. Acupuncture is recognized as an effective approach to treating many conditions according to the World Health Organization.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that helps people identify and change unhelpful styles of thinking and behavior. It may help people with PMDD more effectively cope with:
mood changes
anxiety
depression
pain
When to see a doctor
Sometimes, lifestyle changes and natural remedies do not provide sufficient relief from PMDD or PMS.
Medical treatments may be necessary if premenstrual symptoms impact the following areas.
mental wellbeing
work
relationships
Takeaway
PMDD can interfere with a person’s quality of life and ability to function. PMDD is treatable through lifestyle changes, natural remedies, or medications.
Some people may need a combination of all three options. Once a person has found the right treatment or combination of treatments, they will probably enjoy an improvement in symptoms.
Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream. Because of their essential role in the body, even slight hormonal imbalances can cause side effects throughout the body.
Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system. Hormones travel through the bloodstream to the tissues and organs, delivering messages that tell the organs what to do and when to do it.
Hormones are essential for regulating most major bodily processes, so a hormonal imbalance can affect many bodily functions. Hormones help to regulate:
metabolism
blood sugar
growth
blood pressure
reproductive cycles and sexual function
general growth and development
mood and stress levels
Imbalances in insulin, steroids, growth hormones, and adrenaline can affect males and females alike.
Females may also experience imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels, while males are more likely to experience imbalances in testosterone levels.
Learn more about a hormone imbalance here.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a hormonal imbalance can vary according to which gland is affected and whether the person is male or female.
Symptoms in females
In women, the symptoms more frequently include:
mood swings
constipation or diarrhea
irregular menstrual cycle
infertility
pain in the abdomen or the back during menstruation
low sex drive
insomnia
unexplained weight gainTrusted Source or weight loss
brittle bones
hirsutism, or excessive hair growth
rashes on the skin
Symptoms in males
When a male has low testosterone levels, their symptoms will typically include:
decrease in sex drive
erectile dysfunction (ED)
loss of muscle mass
thinning hair and reduced hair growth
tenderness in the area of the chest
Acne
Acne can occur due to the overproduction of oil in the skin’s sebaceous glands. This excess oil can clog pores and attract bacteria that further inflame the skin.
The hormones testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can affect the sebaceous glands in a person’s skin. Some ways these hormones can influence acne include:
Testosterone helps to regulate sebum (oil) production. Excess amounts can potentially block pores, resulting in acne.
Increasing progesterone levels likely play a role in pregnancy-related acne, although doctors are not sure exactly how.
Women can experience post-menopausal acne, which may be due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels.
In addition, females who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are more likely to experience severe and persistent acne. Doctors think increased exposure to androgen hormones, such as testosterone, and resistance to insulin hormones may increase acne risks.
Learn more about hormonal acne here.
Weight gain
Hormone imbalances can affect several processes in the body that lead to weight gain. Some examples include:
Thyroid hormones act to regulate the body’s metabolism or the rate it burns energy. Too few thyroid hormones can slow metabolism and result in weight gain.
Decreasing levels of estrogen can leadTrusted Source to weight gain in menopause.
Hormonal imbalances due to PCOS can resultTrusted Source in weight gain.
More than 80% of people with Cushing’s disease report weight gain as a symptom. This disorder causes the body to produce excess amounts of cortisol.
Ideally, treating the underlying condition can help reduceTrusted Source weight gain related to hormonal imbalance.
Learn more about estrogen and weight gain here.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy results in changing hormone levels to nourish a growing fetus. These include changing levels of the hormones progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. While the hormone levels may be different, they are not necessarily unbalanced during pregnancy.
However, some hormones that increase during pregnancy can affect how a woman’s body uses insulin. This can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes during pregnancy.
Learn more about gestational diabetes here.
Hair loss
Male pattern hair loss has links to reduced androgen hormonesTrusted Source, such as testosterone. For this reason, doctors also call male pattern hair loss androgenetic alopecia. This condition causes hair loss in the front and crown of the head.
However, not all males experience androgenetic alopecia even though their hormone levels change as they age. Doctors interpretTrusted Source this to mean that some men are genetically predisposed to hair loss.
Learn about female pattern hair loss here.
Tests
Testing for hormonal imbalances depends largely on what condition your doctor may think is causing your condition. Some of the tests a doctor may use include:
Blood testing: Doctors can test for certain hormones, such as estrogen, testosterone, or thyroid hormone.
Imaging: Doctors imaging studies, such as ultrasound, X-ray, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests to identify cysts or tumors that could cause the body to produce excess amounts of hormones.
Urine testing: Doctors use urine tests to measure levels of hormones related specifically to the menstrual cycle, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
Some at-home testing kit companies may offer products that allow a person to take a test at home. These could include urine or blood tests. A person should ensure the company is reputable and uses certified laboratories to evaluate testing samples.
Learn about taking a hormone test at home.
Causes
Everyone will experience natural periods of hormonal imbalance or fluctuations at particular points in their lives. But hormonal imbalances can also occur when the endocrine glands are not functioning properly.
Endocrine glands are specialized cells that produce, store, and release hormones into the blood. There are several endocrine glands located throughout the body that control different organs, including the:
adrenal glands
gonads (testis and ovaries)
pineal gland
pituitary gland
hypothalamus gland
thyroid and parathyroid glands
pancreatic islets
Several medical conditions can impact the endocrine glands. Certain lifestyle habits and environmental factors can also play a role in hormonal imbalances.
Learn more about endocrine disorders here.
Medical conditions
Medical conditions that can affectTrusted Source hormone production may but are not limited to:
diabetes, in which the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin
hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, which are the overactivity and underactivity of the thyroid gland
Addison’s disease, in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones
Cushing’s syndrome, in which the adrenal glands produce too many corticosteroids
acromegaly, which is the overproduction of growth hormones
hyperglycemia, which is the overproduction of glucagon
hypoglycemia, which is when the body produces more insulin than there is glucose in the blood
solitary thyroid nodules
pituitary tumors
benign tumors and cysts (fluid-filled sacks) that affect the endocrine glands
congenital adrenal hyperplasia (low levels of cortisol)
cancers that involve endocrine glands
chemotherapy and radiation therapy
iodine deficiency (goiters)
hereditary pancreatitis
Turner syndrome, in which females are born with only one functioning X chromosome
Prader-Willi syndrome
anorexia
pituitary gland injury with bleeding and congenital genetic abnormalities in a pregnant person and their fetus
Additional causes
Other causes of hormonal imbalance may include:
chronic stress
poor diet and nutrition
having overweight
hormonal replacement or birth control medications
misuse of anabolic steroid medications
exposure to toxins, pollutants, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including pesticides and herbicides
Females naturally experience several periods of hormonal imbalance throughout their lifetime, including:
puberty
menstruation
pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding
perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause
Females are likely to develop different hormonal imbalance disorders than males because they have different endocrine organs and cycles.
Causes of hormonal imbalance in women include:
polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
hormone replacement or birth control medications
primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)Trusted Source
ovarianTrusted Source cancer
Males also experience natural periods of hormonal imbalance during their lifetime, including:
puberty
aging
stress
Men may develop different hormonal imbalances than women because they have different endocrine organs and cycles.
Medical conditions causing hormonal imbalances in men include, but are not limited to:
congenital problems or other underlying medical conditions
prostate cancer, which developsTrusted Source with the aid of androgens or male sex hormones
hypogonadism, which is the production of testosterone
testicular injury
radiation or chemotherapy
hormone disorders, such as a pituitary tumor
diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, HIV, and AIDS
genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome, hemochromatosis, or Kallmann syndrome
Learn how to balance hormones here.
How to fix a hormonal imbalances
Treatment for hormonal imbalances may vary depending on the cause. Every person may require different types of treatment for hormonal imbalances.
Treatments for females
Treatment options for females with hormone imbalances include:
Hormone or birth control. For those who are not trying to get pregnant, medications containing forms of estrogen and progesterone can help regulate irregular menstrual cycles and symptoms. Birth control is available as a pill, ring, patch, shot, or intrauterine device (IUD).
Vaginal estrogen. People experiencing vaginal dryness associated with changes in estrogen levels can apply creams containing estrogen directly to vaginal tissues to reduce symptoms. They can also use estrogen tablets and rings to relieve vaginal dryness.
Hormone replacement medications. Medications are available to temporarily reduce severe symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes or night sweats.
Eflornithine (Vaniqa). This prescription cream may slow excessive facial hair growth in women.
Anti-androgen medications. Medications that block the predominately male-sex hormone androgen can help limit severe acne and excessive hair growth or loss.
Clomiphene (Clomid) and letrozole (Femara). These medications help stimulate ovulation in people with PCOS who are trying to become pregnant. Doctors may also give those with PCOS and infertility injections of gonadotropins to help increase the chances of pregnancy.
Assisted reproductive technology. In vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used to help those with PCOS complications get pregnant.
Treatments for males
Treatment options for males with hormonal imbalances include:
Testosterone medications. Gels and patches containing testosterone can helpTrusted Source reduce symptoms of hypogonadism and other conditions that cause low testosterone levels, such as delayed or stunted puberty.
Other treatments
Treatment options for hormonal imbalances include:
Metformin. A medication for PCOS and diabetes, metformin can help lowerTrusted Source both androgens and blood sugar levels.
Levothyroxine. Medications containing levothyroxine, such as Synthroid and Levothroid, can help improve symptoms of hypothyroidism.
RECALL OF METFORMIN EXTENDED RELEASE
Metformin extended-release tablets should be taken with care and under the advice of a doctor. In May 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source recommended that some makers of metformin extended-release remove some of their tablets from the U.S. market. Further, in June 2021, Viona Pharmaceuticals, a maker of extended-release Metformin pulled their tablets from pharmacy shelves.
Each concern was because an unacceptable level of a probable carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) was found in some extended-release Metformin tablets. If you currently take this drug, call your healthcare provider. They will advise whether you should continue to take your medication or if you need a new prescription.
Natural remedies
People have used natural supplements to treat hormonal imbalances for thousands of years.
However, clinical studies have not proven that any natural remedies can treat hormonal imbalances and their causes.
Supplements
Natural supplements commonly used to reduce symptoms of hormonal imbalances include:
black cohosh, dong quai, red clover, and evening primrose oil for hot flashes caused by menopause
ginseng for irritability, anxiousness, and sleep disturbances caused by menopause
ginseng, and maca for ED
Before taking any natural or herbal treatment, a person should check with their doctor to ensure safety and avoid interaction side effects when taking with other medications.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes that may help reduce the likelihood and symptoms of hormonal imbalances include:
maintaining a moderate body weight
eating a nutritious and balanced diet
exercising regularly
practicing good personal hygiene, focusing on washing areas with a lot of natural oils, such as the face, neck, back, and chest
using OTC acne washes, rinses, and medicated creams or gels for minor to moderate acne
avoiding triggers that cause hot flashes, such as warm weather and spicy, rich, or hot foods and drinks
reducing and managing stress
practicing yoga, meditation, or guided visualization
limiting sugary foods and refined carbohydrates
avoiding packaged foods
replacing older non-stick pans with ceramic pans
using glass containers to store and heat foods and drinks
restricting the use of cleaning products that contain toxic chemicals, such as bleach
buying fruits and vegetables free from pesticides or ripening chemicals
avoiding microwaving foods and drinks in plastic containers
Outlook
Most people will experience at least one or two periods of hormonal imbalance during their lifetime.
Hormonal imbalances are more common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and aging. But some people experience continual, irregular hormonal imbalances.
Medical conditions that affect or involve the endocrine system or glands can lead to a hormone imbalance. However, external factors, such as stress or hormone medications, can also be a cause.
A person should speak to a doctor about long-term unexplained symptoms, especially those that cause pain, discomfort, or interfere with everyday activities.