THE PROBLEM: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent condition of women, characterized by troublesome symptoms 7 to 10 days before menstruation. PMS is estimated to affect 30 - 40 % of menstruation women with peak occurrences being among women in their 30s and 40s.
The primary hormonal disturbance in PMS is estrogen levels are elevated, and progesterone levels are reduced. This increased estrogen: progesterone ration leads to impaired liver function, reduced levels of serotonin (major mood elevating neurotransmitter) in the brain, lower endorphin levels and alterations in other hormone levels.
The menstrual cycle span a period of 30 - 45 years, until a women is in her 40s or 50s. This is when hormones estrogen and progesterone that drive the ovulation are no longer produced and menstruation comes to an end (menopause). Menstrual cycles, usually last about 28 days, but can vary from four to six days on a woman's normal cycle. Each month, the inner lining of the uterus is built up in anticipation of a pregnancy. Without pregnancy the lining breaks down and exits the body as the menstrual flow for 3 to 8 days. The hypothalamus ( in the brain ) and the pituitary gland control this reproductive cycle.
