Premenstrual Syndrome is a group of symptoms mainly experienced during the period from ovulation till the onset of menses. This syndrome includes symptoms of abdominal pain, feelings of bloating, irritability, anxiety, emotional outbursts, lack of attention etc. Premenstrual syndrome is said to result from an abnormal reaction or sensitivity to the change of hormones in the blood after the occurrence of ovulation.
Most women affected with premenstrual syndrome can be managed symptomatically with the use of minimum medication, counseling, social support, and psychotherapy. However, some women are significantly affected by premenstrual syndrome, which makes life difficult for them during this period. Such women need aggressive treatment and psychological support.
The Ayurvedic treatment for premenstrual syndrome consists of giving medicines which act on the body and prevent abnormal retention of fluid. These medicines also reduce abdominal pain and cramps. Medicines also have to be given to relieve stress, anxiety, and emotional labiality. Medicines which soothe the mind as well as the nervous system are quite effective in controlling most of the symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome. In addition, preventive treatment can be given in the form of herbal medicines which act on the ovary, the uterus, as well as the parts of the brain which control ovulation and menstruation. These medicines need to be taken for a period of three to four menstrual cycles, so that symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can be corrected gradually and their severity and frequency of occurrence can be reduced on a long-term basis. The presentation of symptoms can be different in different individuals; treatment therefore has to be tailor-made according to the presentation of premenstrual syndrome in affected females.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment is thus very effective in the treatment & management of premenstrual syndrome.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
