Naturopath, Nutritionist, Nurse

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Premenstrual Syndrome

Hormonal imbalances can be the cause of many women's health issues and be present in so many different ways. It is understandable that there is so much confusion on the subject! Standard treatment often involves hormonal medication or contraception which can be necessary to control severe symptoms. However, this does not always address the underlying drivers of these conditions and after ceasing medications the health issue can remain. Additionally, some medications can lead to undesirable side effects. 

• PMS affects up to 40 % of New Zealand wāhine (women)
  
• Approximately 5 % of women experience severe premenstrual symptoms this can also be known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Symptoms of PMS include: 

Symptoms of PMDD include:

• Moodiness

1. Irritability
2. Tension
3. Crying easily
4. Headache
5. Confusion
6. Sore breasts
7. Depression
8. Constipation or diarrhoea
9. Feeling bloated (retaining water)
10. Backache
11. Clumsiness 

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Loss of confidence
• ​Intense anger
• ​​Conflict with other people
• Bloating
• Breast pain
• Mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating

• Decreased interest in usual activities​
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Feeling out of control
• Sleep problems
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Hot flashes

At Flourish Health Emporium our team of health care professionals are experienced in dealing with PMS presentations and their approach to this is to address the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance.

We do this by using evidence-based suggestions which may include diet and lifestyle recommendations or herbal and nutritional supplements where appropriate while prioritising safety and consulting with your primary health care provider. We also utilize lab testing and comprehensive hormones testing when appropriate, because we believe testing is better than guessing!