Top 6 Natural Ways to Relieve Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Every woman wants to reduce the amount of chemicals she puts in and on her body. This goes for monthly PMS relief as well. The biggest misconception is that pre-menstrual pain is ‘normal’ and you just have to suck it up. That’s a myth – there are natural ways to relieve your PMS.

The menstrual cycle involves a delicate balance of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. If this balance is disrupted and not regulating properly, you’re likely to experience premenstrual symptoms such as bloating, cramps, breast tenderness, and headaches in the week leading up to your period. Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to mood swings, anxiety, trouble sleeping – and the list goes on!

Natural treatments can go a long way to relieve your PMS, and most are easy to integrate into your daily wellness routine. Taking better care of your overall health with a natural approach is the first place to start. 

1. Exercise

It may sound counterintuitive when all you want to do is curl up in bed, but exercise actually works wonders for regulating mood swings and bloating. Just twenty minutes of aerobic movement on most days (like brisk walking, cycling, or yoga) can relieve your PMS by making you feel less tired and depressed, improving the quality of your sleep, and helping with any PMS-related swelling.

2. Clean up your cosmetics, skin care & fem care

PMS is a hormonal thing. Cosmetics skin care have chemicals which disturb the hormonal system. This adds up. So in order to have period as smooth as possible, remove the skin care products that disturb your hormones.

3. Dietary changes

Step away from the salty or sweet processed foods and snacks! They only encourage more bloating and fluid retention. Eating smaller but more frequent meals can help fight that feeling of fullness while PMSing, as can foods high in complex carbs like fruits and veggies. Finally, avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages as much as you can.

4. Heat

During your menstrual period, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Heat helps with relaxing these muscles. An easy and natural way to get heat relief is with patches specifically made for menstrual cramps or hot water bottles.

5. Acupuncture and Massage

Research shows that most women get natural PMS relief from acupuncture. This practice increases circulation and lowers stress hormones which can enhance mood and alleviate pain. Massage therapy performed by a professional, a partner, or even yourself can also provide natural relief for period cramps and pain.

6. Vitamins and Supplements

Vitamins specially formulated to target cramps and promote a healthy menstrual cycle are an easy way to improve your symptoms naturally. Calcium, fennel seed, and Chaste Tree berry are all common natural supplements for PMS.

No two women will have the same menstrual experience. Personalization helps, especially if PMS compromises your quality of life each month. When your approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, it’s often easier and more effective at addressing your own set of symptoms naturally.