This subgroup of PMS is the least prevalent and is relatively rare in its pure form. Its key symptom is depression.
Signs, symptoms & indicators of Premenstrual Syndrome PMS D (Depression)
Unexplained teariness/sadness
Depression with fatigue
Short-term memory failure
Pre/menstrual depression
PMS type D is characterized chiefly by depression.
Poor concentration during cycle
Being a light sleeper
Unsound sleep
(Frequent) difficulty falling asleep
Conditions that suggest Premenstrual Syndrome PMS D (Depression)
Being/being post menopausal
Risk factors for Premenstrual Syndrome PMS D (Depression)
Absence of short-term memory loss
Recommendations for Premenstrual Syndrome PMS D (Depression)
Progesterone
In patients with PMS Type D, progesterone levels may be elevated. You should have your hormone levels checked prior to any hormone therapy: using progesterone cream may only make symptoms worse.
Magnesium
Lead blocks the binding of estrogen to receptor sites and but has no effect on progesterone. A chronic magnesium deficiency may be a contributing factor as it results in increased lead absorption and retention, while decreasing resistance to stress. Hair mineral analysis has shown that, in general, PMS patients have higher heavy metal levels and lower magnesium levels than non-PMS controls. Menstrual cramps, irritability, fatigue, depression and water retention have been lessened with magnesium, usually given along with calcium and often with vitamin B6. Magnesium is often at its lowest level during menstruation. Supplementing magnesium in the same amount (or more) as calcium (about 500-1,000mg daily) is currently recommended for premenstrual problems.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
In one study, women received 50mg per day of vitamin B6 or a placebo for 3 months. Symptoms amongst these women included depression, irritability, tiredness, headache, breast tenderness and swollen abdomen/hands. At this dose depression, irritability and tiredness were the only symptoms to respond and they were reduced by 50%. [Gynecol Obstet Invest 1997;43(2): 120-124]
Key
| Weak or unproven link |
| Strong or generally accepted link |
| Strongly counter-indicative |
| May do some good |
| Likely to help |
| Reasonably likely to cause problems |
Glossary
Premenstrual Syndrome
PMS consists of various physical and/or emotional symptoms that occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation. The symptoms begin about midcycle, are generally the most intense during the last seven days before menstruation and include: acne; backache; bloating; fatigue; headache; sore breasts; changes in sexual desire; depression; difficulty concentrating; difficulty handling stress; irritability; tearfulness.