Premenstrual tension or premenstrual syndrome – PMT or PMS – is a hormonal imbalance which manifests itself through a variety of symptoms. Physical, mental and emotional problems can be experienced through symptoms such as fatigue, emotional instability, aggression, anxiety, depression, stress, tension, lack of concentration, confusion, fluid retention and headaches.

Research suggests that 30 to 40 percent of menstruating women suffer from some form of PMT with some women experiencing very severe symptoms. It may manifest itself at earlier or later stages in life, but for all who experience it, the cause is the same – a hormonal upheaval.

To learn more about the personal problems related to menstrual symptoms requires careful consideration. The timing of certain symptoms, and how this relates to ovulation and menstruation, should be monitored, if for no other reason than to understand what is happening in the body and mind.

In this way at least the sufferer can be forewarned and will be better able to cope. Although premenstrual tension can be a very debilitating problem to overcome, nothing is to be gained by denying its existence. It is much more sensible to recognise the problem and then look for help.

I remember one patient who hesitantly informed of tenderness and swelling of the breasts and then, gaining courage, she continued by listing weight gain, insomnia and abdominal bloating. She desperately wanted me to agree that all these symptoms could not possibly be ascribed to PMT as her doctor had diagnosed. She was convinced that this was impossible and that there must be another cause. At the end of the consultation I had to tell her that I was in full agreement with the diagnosis her doctor had reached.
Together, we worked out a course of treatment which she followed carefully and afterwards she admitted that both her doctor and I must have been right in our diagnosis because the positive results of the treatment programme were clearly evident.

Diet is of the greatest importance as many women respond to a craving for chocolate, sugar and refined carbohydrates by indulging themselves. Unfortunately, this is not the answer.

Women who suffer from PMT should reduce their consumption of coffee, tea and alcohol, which are all stimulants, particularly during menstruation. There are now a good number of very pleasant alternatives such as herbal teas and Bambu coffee.

Vitamin B6 can be of immense help and is often the first stop for women who want to avoid the use of prescribed hormonal medication from their general practitioners. However, one of the most useful preparations for PMT and general menstrual symptoms is the herb, Agnus castus. Research has shown that it has advantages over vitamin B6 and in my clinical experience, works more effectively than Evening Primrose Oil, another commonly used supplement.