PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a common problem that affects many women (30-40% of women of reproductive age). However, most of the time, it is unreported and untreated as most women think that this is just part of the normal menstrual cycle and have learned to "live with it". Most are unaware that effective treatments are available.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more serious form of PMS and in which irritability, anxiety and even depression occur 1-2 weeks before the period begins. It tends to disappear within 2-3 days after the period starts. It can affect up to 5% of women of reproductive age. This can severely affect one's lifestyle and daily functioning. The good news is that PMDD can be treated successfully if women were to seek the appropriate medical help.
The most convenient and acceptable treatment for most women is to start on Yaz (oral contraceptive pill, OCP) which is the only OCP to be FDA-approved to treat PMDD. Other benefits of Yaz are:
- contraception
- regulation of irregular prolong menses
- treatment of painful and heavy menses.
Yaz also reduces acne, improves skin complexion and is not associated with weight gain (unlike some other OCPs). This can be taken long term, especially if the other gynaecological disorders (mentioned above) warrant treatment at the same time.
Alternatively, there are also antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), but women usually are not keen to take this long-term. Other treatments which do not involve medication include relaxation techniques and meditation but the effectiveness varies between patients.
