PMS – Which Hormone Picture Are You?
Those who experience pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) know that it can significantly impact quality of life. The root cause of PMS mainly has to deal with hormone imbalances, and while estrogen is the most well known female hormone, there are other players in the game. Take a look at your PMS symptoms below to see if you fall into any of these categories.
Common to all types
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
PMS-A (low progesterone)
- Anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Back pain
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Brain fog
- Irritable
PMS-C (low androgens)
- Cravings for sweet and salty foods
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Decreased concentration and focus
- Headaches
- Fainting/lightheadedness (low blood sugar)
PMS-H (high androgens)
- Hyperhydration – breast congestion/tenderness, water retention, swelling of face, hands, ankles
- Bloating
- Weight gain (likely due to water retention)
- Acne/oily skin
- Increased anger/irritability
PMS-D (low estrogens)
- Depression – decreased mood, feelings of hopelessness, decreased interest in work/school/hobbies
- Insomnia, excessive sleepiness
- Decreased coordination
- Difficulty concentrating, increased forgetfulness
The majority of females will overlap and not fit perfectly into one category. This is a general framework to guide treatment, and helps to direct what hormone picture you need to optimize.
“Hormones” is such a broad term that it is important to narrow down what exactly you’re dealing with, which can be tricky because our bodies are complex with many different systems interacting with each other all the time.
Naturopathic medicine is great at looking at your whole picture to determine the cause of your health concerns. Hormone testing can be done through blood, urine, and saliva through a naturopathic doctor. Speak to your naturopathic doctor today if your hormones are a concern for you.
