Premenstrual Syndrome PMS D
(Depression)

PMS type D is characterized chiefly by depression.

In patients with PMS Type D, progesterone levels may be elevated.  You should have your hormone levels checked prior to any hormone therapy: using progesterone cream may only make symptoms worse.

Lead blocks the binding of estrogen to receptor sites and but has no effect on progesterone.  A chronic magnesium deficiency may be a contributing factor as it results in increased lead absorption and retention, while decreasing resistance to stress.  Hair mineral analysis has shown that, in general, PMS patients have higher heavy metal levels and lower magnesium levels than non-PMS controls.  Menstrual cramps, irritability, fatigue, depression and water retention have been lessened with magnesium, usually given along with calcium and often with vitamin B6.  Magnesium is often at its lowest level during menstruation.  Supplementing magnesium in the same amount (or more) as calcium (about 500-1,000mg daily) is currently recommended for premenstrual problems.

In one study, women received 50mg per day of vitamin B6 or a placebo for 3 months.  Symptoms amongst these women included depression, irritability, tiredness, headache, breast tenderness and swollen abdomen/hands.  At this dose depression, irritability and tiredness were the only symptoms to respond and they were reduced by 50%.  [Gynecol Obstet Invest 1997;43(2): 120-124]