PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

It is as common as unknown. Although many women suffer with premenstrual syndrome - PMS or simply - every month, this problem seems not to be fully understood, whether in relation its symptoms, prevention and treatment. To get an idea, about 30% of women complaining of PMS, and the discomforts are not just physical, such as abdominal discomfort. Irritability, high sensitivity and an uncontrollable urge to consume sweets are some examples of their emotional symptoms.

"Research indicates that there is an intimate relationship between female sex hormones, endorphins (natural substances linked to feelings of pleasure) and neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which explain the symptoms and their severity in approximately 8% of women," clarifies the gynecologist Rosa Maria Neme (CRM SP-87844), Doctor of Medicine in the area of ​​gynecology at the University of São Paulo and Director of the Center for Endometriosis São Paulo.

However, for those suffering from menstrual cramps during the expert gives a warning: "This symptom may be related to other problems such as endometriosis, for example, but does not represent a typical change triggered by the TPM."

Prevention

How to avoid or reduce the sudden changes in mood and in the female body? To control the TPM, the ideal is to maintain a balanced life and perform regular aerobic exercise. "We know that the practice exercises, and relieve stress, keeps the hormone levels more stable and thus avoid abrupt changes of mood," he explains.

Another point that should be considered important is food. PMS symptoms that occur approximately 10 days prior to menstruation, can be caused by low calcium and vitamin B6 in the body. Thus, calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, ice cream (skim versions and less greasy). Fish, salmon, green vegetables are also important.

Other foods such as bananas, potatoes, lentils, meat, whole grains, green vegetables, pineapple, mango and corn are good sources of vitamin B6. Foods high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables in general, r can also help in decreasing the levels of estrogen in this phase of the menstrual cycle, improving the symptoms of PMS.

"Foods with a diuretic, rich in essential fatty acids, found in evening primrose oil and ginko biloba, green tea, fruit with diuretic as watermelon, melon and artichoke can help combat swelling at this stage. Stimulants like tea, coffee and chocolate should be avoided during this period. "

Treatment

Currently, the use of hormonal methods that block menstruation, such as intrauterine system treated with progesterone and the use of new generation of contraceptive pills that have the progesterone hormone with diuretic, have been considered the new weapons to combat the problem.

"Treatments with vitamins, herbal, and even more potent medications such as antidepressants, are also part of medical indications. This will depend on the severity of symptoms. Psychotherapy can also help a lot, that this is prescribed by the doctor. Currently, a new contraceptive that provides natural estrogen (estradiol valerate) instead of synthetic (ethinyl estradiol) may also be an important weapon in the fight against TPM "