Health

Stress for Women: How to Ditch PMS -- for Good

Bloat. Mood swings. Stress. Pimples: Just a few of the less-than-welcome health symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Send them packing with these six strategies

by Robin Immerman Gruen

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PMS isn't a new syndrome; rather, it's been the number one nag and creator of stress for women since, well, forever.

While some of us are lucky enough to escape it entirely, the majority of women experience one (if not many more) symptom(s) every single month -- like clockwork -- in the days leading up to their periods. From mild fluid retention to four pounds of "bloat," one annoying zit to a full-face breakout, slight mood swing to massive depression, the health symptoms are vast in terms of degree and force.

See six ways to ditch PMS for good -- now.

"Every woman is different, so the symptoms and signs of PMS vary too," explains Jeff Livingston, M.D, an obstetrician-gynecologist in Irving, Texas. Which, of course, is why there is no "one size fits all" prescription for ditching it.

"Premenstrual syndrome is thought to be the result of alterations in or interactions between the levels of sex hormones and brain chemicals during the menstrual cycle," says Dr. Livingston. "Birth control pills may help relieve PMS symptoms by stabilizing those hormone levels. Some women may find even better relief from a form of birth control pill that is continuous," he says. And, "eating a healthy diet" and partaking in "physical activity and exercise" also help "in improving general health and well-being" and "help reduce anxiety and nervous tension," which together can lessen the issues often associated with PMS, he says.

More specifically, here are six ways to wean off the woes of PMS, easily.

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Older comments

I definitely need to clean my diet.

by Monique3 Monday, February 4, 2013 at 08:45AM Report as inappropriate

I wish the pill was an option for me!

by EricaC123 Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at 02:43PM Report as inappropriate

Where is the tip about moodiness? How best not to strangle my hubby during that whole week?? =)

by kimihavens Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at 01:13PM Report as inappropriate

very good to know. im going on the pill soon and hopefully that will help me out

by treehugger1997 Tuesday, December 25, 2012 at 04:55PM Report as inappropriate

I can't take any of the over the counter remedies. They speed me up. I prefer vitamin B6, magnesium oxalate 200-600 mg/day , calcium 1000 mg/day, vitamin C 500 mg/day, an extra dose of iron, vitamin K 30 mg/day, & vitamin B2 400 mg/day. Check with your doctor first, as everyone is different. If you are on other meds you should check with your healthcare professional before taking these as well. They work like a charm for me!

by robyne00 Sunday, December 9, 2012 at 10:34AM Report as inappropriate

The calcium works for me sometimes. Might try the vitamin E.

by Chris213 Friday, September 28, 2012 at 06:32AM Report as inappropriate

Ive never taken a pain killer during these times....but i'll try more calcium.

by andyv1217 Wednesday, August 8, 2012 at 10:16PM Report as inappropriate

work out, drink water and eat right and i will have a pms free month.

by AmandaAmanda Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 09:31PM Report as inappropriate

Good tips, especially about vitamin E and calcium.

by VV001 Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at 07:37PM Report as inappropriate

I have been trying to up my calcium intake lately.

by beautybody Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 09:49PM Report as inappropriate