PMS: Can Vitamins D and E Offer Relief?
Pain, cramps and a host of other symptoms can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life during menstruation. Approximately one in four women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) severe enough to disrupt their daily routines. PMS can manifest in over 100 different symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Recent research explores whether vitamin D and E supplementation can alleviate PMS symptoms.
Understanding PMS and Its Causes
PMS typically begins around 14 days before the start of a menstrual period. Even as the exact causes aren’t fully understood, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels are believed to play a significant role. Common symptoms include irritability, bloating, headaches, and breast tenderness. Currently, there are no universally agreed-upon guideline-compliant treatment recommendations for PMS.
The Vitamin D and E Study: A Closer Look
Researchers from the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran, investigated the effects of combined vitamin D and E supplementation on pain intensity and PMS symptoms. The study focused on women experiencing painful menstruation, specifically primary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by the uterine contractions that occur to shed the uterine lining. These contractions are influenced by prostaglandins, which also contribute to pain sensation, leading to cramps and abdominal pain that can radiate to the back.
Participants in the study were assigned to receive either a combination of vitamin D and E or a placebo. The intervention group received 400 IU of vitamin E daily and 50,000 IU of vitamin D weekly for eight weeks, followed by 50,000 IU of vitamin D monthly for an additional two months.
What Do Vitamins D and E Do?
Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble calciferols involved in numerous bodily processes, including metabolism, protein formation, and gene control. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a key form that supports calcium and phosphate absorption for healthy bones and helps prevent osteoporosis. [1]
Vitamin E is a cell-protective vitamin found in almost every cell in the body. Tocopherols and tocotrienols, the main components of vitamin E, function as antioxidants, scavenging free radicals. Vitamin E is obtained through diet and stored primarily in fatty tissues, the liver, and adrenal glands. [1]
Study Results: Improvements in Pain and PMS Symptoms
Pain intensity, measured using the Numerical Pain Scale (NRS), and PMS symptoms, assessed using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool, were evaluated at the beginning of the study and again four months later. The results showed significant improvements in both pain intensity and PMS symptoms in the vitamin D and E supplementation group. [2]
According to the study, “our study highlights the positive effects of vitamin D and E supplementation on the relief of pain and PMS symptoms in primary dysmenorrhea.” [2] This suggests that healthcare providers may consider this therapy as a potential treatment option, particularly when considering a patient’s individual vitamin D and E levels.
Vitamin E and PMS: What the Research Says
Research suggests that the therapeutic effects of vitamin E may take at least two months to become apparent. [1] combining vitamin E with calcium may be more effective than using either supplement alone. [1] For PMS-related breast pain, vitamin E is thought to be a key contributor to symptom relief. [2]
What Helps with Period Pain?
Further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish optimal dosages. Individuals experiencing PMS should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for their specific needs.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.