PMS Symptoms appear in the second half of the menstrual cycle such as mood swings, cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, and possibly depression. Much of PMS is caused by hormonal imbalance, unhealthy eating, and stress. While some women can alleviate these symptoms by exercising regularly, reducing intake of certain products (alcohol, caffeine, sugar, refined carbohydrates), and managing stress effectively, others have more severe symptoms that require treatment. We offer relief and a way to be PMS free, without drugs. Hormone Kits The Female Hormone Panels screen for: • Hormone imbalances that may contribute to PMS and migraines • Contributing factors to infertility such as luteal phase deficit, anovulation, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) • Inadvertent or excessive hormone exposures that may cause irregular menses • Underlying hormone abnormalities associated with painful or heavy menses • Early indicators of perimenopause The Expanded Female Hormone Panel Can Be Helpful In Determining The Underlying Cause Of: • Irregular or Painful Periods • Infertility or Miscarriage • Premenstrual Syndrome (Mood Changes, Breast Tenderness, Water Retention, Pelvic Cramping) • Low Libido • Facial Hair Growth • Acne • Migraine The test kit is comprised of 11 salvia samples, meaning it is a painless yet effectively method of understanding your hormone levels throughout the full month, instead of a blood sample comprised of only information on that day. These Eleven Saliva Samples Are Used To Examine The Following Hormones: • Estradiol – Produced by the ovaries, this is the most active form of estrogen prior to menopause. Proper levels are necessary for healthy menstrual cycles and fertility. • Progesterone – As the word indicates, progesterone is “pro-gestational”. This hormone prepares the endometrium (internal uterine lining) for implantation of the fertilized ovum. Abnormal levels can play a significant role in infertility and recurrent miscarriage. • DHEA – A hormone produced in the adrenal glands, which is a precursor to estrogen and testosterone. Too much or too little DHEA can lead to abnormal levels of these hormones. • Testosterone – Usually considered a “male hormone”, testosterone plays an important role in maintaining muscle mass, bone density, metabolism, energy and libido in women as well. Elevated levels are associated with symptoms such as acne and facial hair growth, and may indicate PCOS. • Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) - A hormone that regulates the production of estradiol by the ovaries. FSH is released from the pituitary gland in the brain. • Luteinizing hormone (LH) - Another pituitary hormone, which regulates progesterone production and is necessary for ovulation. Through the careful evaluation of these hormones, we can help a wide variety of patients with many hormone related ailments including painful periods, missed cycles, PMS, and infertility. Because we have not listed everything that we can assist you with does not mean you are limited in the care you will receive at our office. Our physicians are well trained and educated to assist with most chronic ailments including (but not limited to) diabetes, asthma, cardiovascular disease, hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, and stress induced ailments. Again, our goal is to help prevent or reverse health conditions ailing you, and to help you restore and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Let us know what you are experiencing so that we can assist you in achieving your goals of a healthier you!