PMS treatment (premenstrual syndrome)

A MinuteClinic provider can conduct a physical examination and order laboratory or imaging studies. They can then identify the cause of symptoms and prescribe medicine or recommend non-medicinal treatments. If needed, a MinuteClinic provider can refer you to a specialist for further treatment.

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

The exact causes of PMS can vary from person to person. However, PMS symptoms affect most people who menstruate at some point.

Hormonal changes can have an impact on PMS symptoms. As you approach menopause, symptoms can worsen. A history of pregnancy, depression or postpartum depression can also put you at risk for PMS symptoms.

While there is no cure for PMS, you can get relief for your symptoms with treatment. It can be helpful to keep a menstrual diary to track your symptoms, length of your periods, eating habits and any other details you notice during your menstrual cycle.

Treatments for PMS include:

• Lifestyle changes: Your provider may recommend drinking more water, eating a more balanced diet and limiting certain foods associated with water retention and acne flare-ups. They may also recommend exercise, changes to your sleep and nutritional supplements.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are drugs that can alleviate headaches, menstrual cramps, breast tenderness and other forms of physical pain caused by PMS

Common premenstrual syndrome treatments may not work for severe physical and emotional symptoms. When you don’t know what to take for severe PMS, certain types of medications may be effective in treating depression, extreme mood changes, fluid retention and more:

• Selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are a type of drug that increases levels of serotonin, a hormone that affects mood. SSRIs can treat severe PMS mood swings as well as depression and anxiety.
• Diuretics: A diuretic medication helps rid your body of excess sodium and water. If you experience severe breast tenderness, swelling and fluid retention, diuretics can help.
• Acne medication: Severe PMS breakouts may be treated with over-the-counter acne medications. In more extreme cases, a health care provider may prescribe stronger medication.

If your symptoms are so severe that they interfere with your daily life, they may be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

PMDD is a more severe form of PMS. They share many of the same symptoms; however, these symptoms may interfere with your ability to live your day-to-day life. PMDD may also cause:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Disinterest in your day-to-day life

Non-medicinal relief from PMS symptoms can include:

• Relaxation methods such as breathing exercises and massage therapy
• Regular exercise
• Healthy sleeping habits
• Increased consumption of complex carbohydrates (whole grains, beans, etc.)

If PMS symptoms are affecting your day-to-day life, a MinuteClinic provider can help you find the right treatment option for your symptoms.