PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects more than 50% of women of childbearing age, causing physical and emotional symptoms that disrupt daily life around the time of their period. At The Ashford Center in Athens, Georgia, Clinton Ashford, MD, FACOG, Rebecca Ashford, MD, and Brookes Vaughan, NP, specialize in addressing the symptoms women experience with PMS. Our providers have a reputation that brings people from all over the Southeast for help with PMS. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is PMS?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the physical and emotional changes women experience every month in the days leading up to their menstrual period. 

Though all women experience some physical or emotional changes before their period, with PMS, these symptoms occur three or more months in a row and are severe enough to affect everyday life.

PMS is common but not something you need to suffer through. If your PMS symptoms make it hard for you to be productive at work or interfere with your personal life, it’s time to see the experts at The Ashford Center.

What are the symptoms of PMS?

PMS symptoms vary in type and severity but affect your physical and emotional well-being. Common symptoms of PMS include:

• Pelvic pain
• Abdominal bloating
• Fluid retention
• Painful periods
• Migraine headaches
• Premenstrual headaches
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Food cravings
• Skin problems
• Gastrointestinal symptoms

Many women with PMS also have problem periods, such as heavy or prolonged bleeding or an irregular cycle.  

What happens during a PMS consultation?

Dr. Ashford specializes in gynecological conditions like PMS. He understands how your symptoms make it harder for you to accomplish the things you need to do.

During your consultation, he asks detailed questions about your symptoms and menstrual cycle. He reviews your medical and gynecological history as well as your family history. 

He then performs a physical and pelvic exam and may run lab work or imaging tests to rule out other gynecological conditions contributing to your PMS symptoms, like polycystic ovary syndrome or uterine fibroids.

What are the treatments for PMS?

The providers at The Ashford Center customize your PMS treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms. If your symptoms are mild, they may recommend lifestyle changes such as engaging in aerobic exercise, finding healthy outlets for stress, and eating a balanced diet.

For moderate to severe symptoms, Dr. Ashford may prescribe hormonal birth control and an antidepressant. 

Dr. Ashford also performs advanced endometrial ablation to treat PMS symptoms. This minimally invasive procedure gently removes the thin hormonal lining of the uterus, stopping the PMS symptoms, heavy menstrual bleeding, and premenstrual headaches. 

Dr. Ashford only performs the endometrial ablation procedure in women with no future pregnancy plans. 

To get help for your PMS from the experts, call The Ashford Center or schedule an appointment online today.