Understanding You Alternative therapies and premenstrual symptoms
Mild symptoms of your menstrual cycle may be managed with alternative therapies. Before starting any alternative therapies, you should always ensure your alternative therapist is fully qualified and accredited by the relevant industry body. Some examples of alternative therapies include:
Cognitive therapy
Cognitive therapy can help you deal with negative or extreme thought patterns. Often these ways of thinking become habit and you no longer you’re even notice them. Cognitive therapy can help you recognise these negative patterns and replace them with a more positive outlook.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into relevant pressure points across the body to treat a variety of medical conditions. The needles are extremely fine and shouldn’t cause pain however they may be able to help relieve some premenstrual tension.
Herbal remedies
Some women may find relief from mild premenstrual symptoms by using herbal remedies. Before you start taking any herbal remedies, you should speak with your doctor.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals can be good for your overall health and may ease mild symptoms of PMS however they are not a treatment for the more severe symptoms associated with your menstrual cycle. Before you start taking any vitamins and supplements, you should speak with your doctor.
Yoga or Tai Chi
Yoga and Tai Chi are forms of exercise dating back thousands of years that help relax the mind and body. The calming effect of the exercises can help to relieve stress, anxiety and depression and several yoga poses have also been shown to help ease menstrual pain.
www.understandingyou.com.au is a national contraceptive health education program in Australia endorsed by Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia and supported via an unrestricted educational grant by Bayer Australia Limited. The contents do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Bayer Australia.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
