Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & PMDD
Find Relief from PMS and PMDD Naturally
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to the physical and emotional symptoms that can begin up to 10 days before menstruation and often continue into the first few days of a woman’s period. These symptoms can include:
Fatigue
Anxiety or depression
Abdominal cramping or low back pain
Acne and bloating
Digestive issues
Breast tenderness
Emotional sensitivity or mood swings
PMS affects up to 75% of women to some degree. For some, symptoms are mild. But for others, they can significantly interfere with daily life.
In more severe cases, women may be diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)—a more intense form of PMS marked by sudden mood changes, irritability, sadness, anger, or depression that can disrupt work, relationships, and overall well-being.
What Causes PMS and PMDD?
While the exact cause is still unknown, hormonal fluctuations and brain chemical imbalances—particularly involving serotonin—are believed to play a key role. Stress is another major factor. High levels of chronic stress can elevate cortisol and lower serotonin and dopamine levels, worsening PMS symptoms.
How We Can Help
Multiple studies have shown that acupuncture is highly effective in reducing symptoms of both PMS and PMDD.* It works by:
Regulating hormonal balance
Reducing cortisol levels
Supporting mood-stabilizing neurotransmitters
Addressing pain and inflammation
Calming the nervous system
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, PMS is seen as a result of underlying imbalances in the body, often tied to diet, lifestyle, and stress. Our goal isn’t just symptom relief—it’s to resolve the root cause.
With a customized approach combining acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance, we can help you feel like yourself again—every day of the month.
Ready to take control of your cycle?
Contact our experienced acupuncturists to start your personalized care plan.
*Using acupuncture to treat premenstrual syndrome. (n.d.). www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12410369
**Li, Q., Shi, G., Xu, Q., Wang, J., Liu, C., & Wang, L. (2013). Acupuncture Effect and Central Autonomic Regulation. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3677642/