FULL QUESTION
Q: I have PCOS and until I gave birth to twins last December did not have a regular cycle unless taking medication to induce ovulation. Now I have had a cycle each month for the past 9 months. Since I was blessed with only one a year I don't know much in regards to PMS. However I have
noticed that for the past 2 months that 2 weeks before my period I feel
weepy, down and achy all over and have what feels like light cramping.
The week before my period I am a bear and snappy and want to eat everything in sight. Can you have PMS for 2 weeks prior to your cycle?
A:You have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) which is caused by an imbalance in hormones. There is an excess of androgens or “male” hormones, so the ovary’s normal production of eggs is interrupted and small cysts are formed there. This imbalance of hormones can cause symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles or lack of periods entirely, infertility, both of which you had, facial hair growth, hair loss, acne, PMS, and sometimes weight gain. The conventional medical treatment of PCOS consists of birth control pills, synthetic progestin (not the same as progesterone), and/or drugs that stop the androgenic (masculinizing) effects of the condition. However, none of these get to the root of the problem, which is an imbalance of hormones. This is often related to blood sugar imbalance, most often due to eating too many simple carbs-- sugar, white flour, cake, cookies, etc. PCOS is often associated with low thyroid function, as well. So how does this relate to your PMS? I find that once the diet is corrected and hormones rebalanced, the PMS clears up. You can always start by taking my PMS Balance formula, till you have your lab tests done, and see how that works for you, since it contains natural nutrients that can have a hormone-regulating effect. [more]
I'd suggest you have all your hormones tested as described in my book, 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health [more] where I also discuss PCOS, PMS, blood sugar issues, and thyroid function. If you were my patient, I'd check your estrogen, progesterone, DHEA-S, testosterone, insulin, Vitamin D, TSH, Free T3 and Free T4 levels, then put you on supplements and/or hormones such as natural progesterone, to address this problem without the side effects (and ineffectiveness) of synthetic progestin. You may also be low Vitamin D and other nutrients, such as fish oil. Essential for all new mothers, as well as pregnant women, are omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil. They help your brain function and mood, and for the developing fetus, and nursing infants, promote brain growth and enhance brain function. For a smart and healthy baby, take fish oil capsules throughout pregnancy, and afterwards, especially if you are nursing.
