People who menstruate have been taught that PMS is inevitable and unavoidable.  Told that cramping or breast tenderness or mood swings (or all of the above and more!) just comes with the territory of having a menstrual cycle.  Not true.  In Chinese Medicine PMS is a sign that something is out of balance in our bodies…which means that PMS is not a natural state of being.  It also means that we can find our own natural state of being that is PMS-free.  

PMS symptoms range from mild to severe.  Cramping can feel like some downward pulling or pressure all the way to stabbing pain that has you doubled over.  PMS can also include breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation or diarrhea, appetite changes, fatigue, headaches, sleep disturbances, mood swings (from crying to anger and back again), anxiety and depression.  For some people who menstruate, the few days before, during and/or after their menstrual cycle border on disabling. 

The good news is this is not inevitable and you can experience PMS-free menstrual cycles without resorting to painkillers or birth control pills.  

Other menstrual issues like heavy bleeding, clotting, pre- or mid-cycle spotting, early and late cycles can also be resolved with acupuncture and herbal medicine.