Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects most menstruating people to some extent at some time during their reproductive years.
While most people think of PMS as only causing mood changes, symptoms can range from mental to physical.
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Reducing the effects of PMS depends on what kind of symptoms you have.
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Sarafem is a renamed and chemically equivalent version of Prozac, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Your doctor may prescribe you a different SSRI.
Treating Multiple Symptoms of PMS
Oral contraceptives are known to be effective in treating PMS and PMDD.
Instead, increase your consumption of complex carbohydrates, leafy green vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Magnesium also may help reduce breast tenderness.
S Women who experience premenstrual breast tenderness can lessen this symptom by taking 600 IU of vitamin E daily.
Other treatments that may be helpful include taking about 1500 mg ofPrimrose oildaily or using naturalprogesterone cream.
Some women are able to control the symptoms of PMS by usingoral contraceptives.
Over-the-counter treatments that may help include ibuprofen, naproxen, and other drugs specifically made for relieving premenstrual symptoms.
Aspirin is not the best choice because of its potential to increase the length and severity of menstrual bleeding.
Kwan I, Onwude JL.Premenstrual syndrome.BMJ Clin Evid.
2013;35(6):437-9. doi:10.1159/000355709
