Question:
Do magnesium supplements help with preventing and treating PMS and dysmenorrhea symptoms (pelvic cramping, pain and irritability before and during menstrual periods)?
Answer:
Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 7
Amount Saved: $120 doctor visit or lost day of work
MedHead Message:
This has been known for a while, start with magnesium 500mg daily and vitamin B6 50mg twice daily, add on calcium 500mg daily, take every day of the month before noticing an effect. If you have severe symptoms despite taking the combination above, you may have endometriosis or uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts. You may need to be evaluated for this by a physician. But whatever you do, start on the magnesium today. You can usually buy it over the counter at most pharmacies and natural food markets.
References:
1. Facchinetti F, Borella P, Sances G, et al. Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes. Obstet Gynecol 1991;78:177-8
2. Walker AF, De Souza MC, Vickers MF, et al. Magnesium supplementation alleviates premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. J Womens Health 1998;7:1157-65
3. Bendich A. The potential for dietary supplements to reduce premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. J Am Coll Nutrition 2000;19:3-12
