Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is incredibly common. Most women experience at least mild cramping, bloating, and fatigue before menstruation every month. If your symptoms are moderate to severe, though, it’s worth talking to your gynecologist so you can achieve relief. Here are just a few remedies your provider may recommend. 

3 Ways to Relieve PMS

1. Antidepressants 

PMS can cause dramatic shifts in mood, which can hurt both your personal relationships and professional performance. If severe monthly mood swings are affecting your life in a negative way, your gynecologist might prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors to help regulate your mood. While these antidepressants are taken daily in most cases, for women with PMS, they may only need to be taken two weeks before menstruation starts. 

2. Hormonal Contraceptives

Hormonal birth control is one of the most popular treatments for painful PMS symptoms. These contraceptives stop ovulation, which means they also affect menstruation. As a result, they can effectively relieve some of the more uncomfortable symptoms of PMS, like cramping, breast tenderness, and headaches. 

3. Lifestyle Changes

If your symptoms of PMS are mild to moderate, your gynecologist may recommend making minor lifestyle changes before resorting to medication. Examples include limiting alcohol and caffeine, sleeping at least 7 to 9 hours each night, and getting in some gentle exercise every day. Making such changes will not only serve to relieve your PMS symptoms, but can also improve your overall health in general. 

To discuss your PMS symptoms with a compassionate gynecologist, turn to North Little Rock Women’s Center in Pulaski County, AR. The practice was established in 1979, and they’ve been upgrading their facility with state-of-the-art equipment ever since, remaining a leader in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Their services include general wellness, contraception, prenatal care, cervical cancer screening, menopause management, and infertility treatment. To learn more about their friendly providers, visit their website, or call (501) 835-9444 to schedule an appointment today.