PMS Specialists
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East Bay Women's Health
OB-GYNs located in Oakland, CA
PMS can bring painful symptoms. East Bay Women’s Health offers options to treat PMS symptoms and bring relief to women in Oakland and Alameda, California, and the surrounding areas.
PMS Q & A
What Causes PMS Symptoms?
PMS is brought on by hormonal changes in the body. These types of symptoms can range from mild pain and discomfort to debilitating pain that interrupts day-to-day activities. The main hormones, estrogen, and progesterone, usually fluctuate during the 28-day menstrual cycle. If the estrogen and progesterone hormones get out of balance, a number of different symptoms can be experienced including:
- Tension or anxiety
- Depression
- Crying
- Social withdrawal
- Poor concentration
- Mood swings
- Irritability or anger
- Appetite changes and food cravings
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Joint or muscle pain
- Weight gain related to fluid retention
- Abdominal bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Acne flare-ups
- Constipation or diarrhea
Can lifestyle factors influence PMS symptoms?
Lifestyle factors can have a negative effect on hormone levels. Sources, such as the foods you eat, the nutrient levels absorbed, and the stress factors endured throughout the day, can lead to PMS symptoms that are more frequent and more severe. For instance, if a person has low blood sugar levels it can cause their emotions to fluctuate. Nutrient levels can also have an impact on PMS. Without getting enough calcium, magnesium, vitamin K, B vitamins, or vitamin E, the body will intensify the PMS symptoms. If there is a reduction in the amount of sugar and carbohydrates in the diet, it can balance blood sugar levels. Having a healthier diet will also provide the essential nutrients that the body needs.
What treatments are available?
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, the doctor may be able to prescribe medications that can ease the symptoms of PMS. Some medications that are commonly prescribed for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) include:
- Antidepressants – to reduce mood symptoms.
- Diuretics - help the body shed excess fluid through the kidneys.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - can ease cramping and breast discomfort.
- Hormonal contraceptives - prescription medications stop ovulation, which may bring relief from PMS symptoms.
Insurance Providers
Our offices accept many commercial insurance plans. Please contact us for questions about insurance.
Words from our patients
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"Dr. Gentry has a wonderful personality, very patient and I never felt rushed. She always sat there and waited to make sure that all my questions were answered."
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"Dr. Gentry answered all of my questions and concerns thoroughly and managed to add a personal touch including a few chuckles in between."
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"Dr. Gentry answered all of my questions and concerns thoroughly and managed to add a personal touch including a few chuckles in between."
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"...my daughter is alive because Dr. Gentry took the time to spend with me during an appointment and that is what counts in a doctor."
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"...my daughter is alive because Dr. Gentry took the time to spend with me during an appointment and that is what counts in a doctor."
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"The care was amazing! She was very helpful and is very knowledgeable. She kept in touch to make sure I was ok. All around, great doctor."
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"Dr. Stelling...was helpful and more solutions oriented than the doctors I worked with [elsewhere]...I felt listened to and supported with sound advice and information."
