Hormonal Imbalances
PMS & PMDD
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are cyclical conditions causing physical and emotional symptoms in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. PMDD is a severe form causing significant mood disturbances. Functional medicine addresses hormonal imbalances, neurotransmitter dysfunction, and nutrient deficiencies to eliminate symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of PMS & PMDD
Mood swings, irritability, anger
Depression and anxiety (severe in PMDD)
Fatigue and low energy
Breast tenderness and swelling
Bloating and water retention
Food cravings (especially sugar and carbs)
Headaches or migraines
Sleep disturbances
Difficulty concentrating
Social withdrawal (PMDD)
Root Causes
Understanding what drives PMS & PMDD
Estrogen dominance and low progesterone
Neurotransmitter imbalances (serotonin, GABA)
Magnesium and B vitamin deficiencies
Blood sugar dysregulation
Chronic stress and cortisol dysregulation
Inflammation
Gut dysbiosis
Poor estrogen metabolism
Thyroid dysfunction
Hormonal and Nutritional Assessment
We evaluate hormone balance, neurotransmitter function, and nutrient status.
Salivary estrogen and progesterone (luteal phase)
DUTCH test for hormone metabolites
Magnesium, B6, B12, vitamin D levels
Thyroid panel
Fasting glucose and insulin
Neurotransmitter testing (if available)
Inflammatory markers
PMS/PMDD Resolution Protocol
Our approach balances hormones, supports neurotransmitter production, and stabilizes blood sugar.
Magnesium glycinate (300-600mg daily)
Vitamin B6 (50-100mg daily)
Calcium supplementation
Chasteberry (Vitex) for progesterone support
Evening primrose oil for breast tenderness
5-HTP or L-tryptophan for serotonin support
Blood sugar stabilization (protein at each meal, avoid refined carbs)
Reduce caffeine and alcohol
Regular exercise
Stress management techniques
Bioidentical progesterone (if deficient)
Expected Outcomes
Significant reduction or elimination of PMS/PMDD symptoms
Improved mood stability
Reduced breast tenderness and bloating
Better energy levels
Improved sleep quality
Reduced food cravings
Enhanced quality of life