Premenstrual syndrome: New insights into etiology and review of treatment methods Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) involves physical and emotional symptoms linked to hormonal fluctuations. Recent research highlights the role of heavy metals and gut microbiome imbalances in worsening these symptoms. Lifestyle changes, microbiome-targeted therapies, and toxin reduction show promise in effective PMS management.
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Divine Aleru
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was reviewed?
This paper is a review of the etiology and treatment options for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). It examines the underlying causes of these conditions, including hormonal fluctuations, neurotransmitter imbalances, and the role of neurosteroids like allopregnanolone. The review also analyzes a variety of treatment options, including pharmacological methods (SSRIs, hormonal therapies, neurosteroid treatments) and non-pharmacological interventions, to provide a comprehensive overview of how PMS and PMDD can be managed.
Who was reviewed?
The review focuses on women of reproductive age who experience PMS and PMDD, with special attention to those who suffer from severe symptoms that significantly impair their daily functioning. The article explores clinical data and findings from various studies to provide a thorough understanding of the disorder’s impact on women’s health, as well as the varying responses to treatment.
What were the most important findings?
The review highlights several key findings about the etiology and treatment of PMS and PMDD. One of the most significant insights is the role of hormonal fluctuations, particularly the progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone, in the onset of PMS symptoms. It is noted that this metabolite modulates the GABA-A receptor in the central nervous system (CNS), which may explain some of the mood and anxiety-related symptoms of PMS. The review also underscores the complexity of the disorder, as it involves multiple physiological systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and neurotransmitter pathways such as serotonin.
SSRIs, commonly used to manage mood symptoms, provide rapid relief and are considered the first-line pharmacological treatment for severe cases. Hormonal therapies, particularly those that stabilize estrogen and progesterone levels, are also effective but require careful selection to avoid exacerbating symptoms. The review suggests that therapies targeting neurosteroids like allopregnanolone may offer new avenues for treatment, although more research is needed. In terms of treatment strategies, the review emphasizes the importance of personalized care, where treatments are tailored to individual symptoms and underlying mechanisms. For instance, oral contraceptives containing drospirenone and ethinylestradiol are effective for controlling physical symptoms, while SSRIs are more beneficial for psychological symptoms.
What are the greatest implications of this review?
The greatest implication of this review is the need for a more nuanced approach to diagnosing and treating PMS and PMDD. By understanding the complex hormonal and neurochemical interactions involved, clinicians can better tailor treatments to individual patients. The review suggests that effective treatment goes beyond symptom alleviation to address the root causes of the disorders. Additionally, the paper points to the importance of considering non-pharmacological interventions alongside medications, particularly for patients who experience mild to moderate symptoms. Future research into the role of neurosteroids and their modulation in the CNS could lead to more targeted treatments with fewer side effects.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) involves physical and emotional symptoms linked to hormonal fluctuations. Recent research highlights the role of heavy metals and gut microbiome imbalances in worsening these symptoms. Lifestyle changes, microbiome-targeted therapies, and toxin reduction show promise in effective PMS management.