PMS Type H

Table of Contents

Other names

Water retention PMS
PMS with bloating
Fluid retention and breast tenderness

Synopsis

PMS Type H is characterized by hyperhydration symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, and swelling in the hands, feet, or face during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. These symptoms are caused by fluid retention influenced by fluctuating levels of estrogen and aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium and water balance. The discomfort may begin a week or more before menstruation and typically resolves shortly after bleeding starts. While not usually harmful, PMS-H can cause significant physical discomfort and emotional distress.

Types:
This type may also include a sensation of heaviness, headaches due to pressure buildup, and sensitivity to tight clothing. PMS-H is often found alongside PMS-A (anxiety) or PMS-C (cravings).

Common Causes:

  • Estrogen dominance and increased aldosterone sensitivity

  • Low progesterone levels, disrupting fluid regulation

  • High sodium intake or dehydration triggering fluid retention

  • Poor liver detoxification affecting hormone clearance

  • Deficiencies in magnesium, vitamin B6, or potassium

Severity Causes:

  • Diets high in processed foods and salt

  • Sedentary lifestyle limiting lymphatic drainage

  • Hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS or thyroid dysfunction)

  • Chronic stress increasing cortisol and water retention

  • Use of hormonal contraceptives or steroids

When to See a Doctor:

  • Sudden or extreme swelling, especially in one limb

  • Persistent bloating that does not resolve with menstruation

  • New onset of symptoms after age 35

  • Coexisting hypertension or kidney issues

  • Discomfort or breast pain interfering with daily activities

Natural Remedies

Magnesium: A natural diuretic that helps reduce water retention, breast tenderness, and bloating. Also supports hormonal balance and reduces cramps.

Vitamin B6: Aids in estrogen metabolism and acts as a mild diuretic. When taken with magnesium, it can significantly reduce PMS-H symptoms.

Dandelion leaf tea: A traditional herbal diuretic that helps flush excess fluid without depleting potassium. Drinking 1–2 cups daily during the luteal phase can relieve bloating.

Evening primrose oil: Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), it reduces breast tenderness and swelling by modulating prostaglandin production and supporting hormonal balance.

Potassium-rich foods: Bananas, avocados, and leafy greens help regulate sodium and reduce fluid buildup. Increasing potassium while reducing sodium improves water balance.

Hydration: Drinking more water helps flush sodium and reduces the body's tendency to retain fluid. Adequate hydration also supports kidney and liver function.

Parsley tea: A gentle natural diuretic that reduces bloating and swelling when taken as a tea during the week before menstruation.

Gentle movement: Light exercise like walking or yoga promotes lymphatic circulation and reduces puffiness in extremities caused by fluid buildup.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

potassium
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
dandelion
evening primrose oil
gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
magnesium
parsley