PMS is short for premenstrual tension which is something a large number of women suffer around the time of their period. They will normally suffer a number of physical and emotional symptoms that occur every month around 2-14 days before their period begins. The severity of symptoms will vary form woman to woman but it is thought that around 75% of women suffer from PMS. The main symptoms of the condition are:

• Abnormal bloating and weight gain
• Breast swelling, tenderness
• Mood swings
• Depression and anxiety
• Skin disorders
• Changes in appetite, food cravings
• Changes in interest in sex
• Headaches, backaches, cramps
• Inability to concentrate, loss of interest in usual activities, confusion

The main therapies for PMS are preventative however in some cases it may be that a doctor will prescribe drugs to help with the symptoms. A full treatment for PMS may include some alternative therapies as well. For example a full analysis of your diet may be required to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. This can help to balance the mood and also to reduce cravings that are often caused by nutritional deficiencies.

You could also consider herbal remedies as they may be able to give significant relief form symptoms. Some of the herbs you can consider are chaste tree, black cohosh and evening primrose oil. It could also be worth visiting a homeopathy practitioner to get a remedy that is right for you. Other therapies you can try are acupuncture and chiropractic.