---
title: Do complementary and alternative treatments work for PMS? | Niyora
description: Many women use alternative therapies for PMS, but the scientific evidence that they work is weak and unclear. Doctors do not have strong proof of their safety
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/premenstrual-syndrome-and-the-use-of-alternative-therapies-2003/
---

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- Do complementary and alternative treatments work for PMS?

Review, 2003

# Do complementary and alternative treatments work for PMS?

Many women use alternative therapies for PMS, but the scientific evidence that they work is weak and unclear. Doctors do not have strong proof of their safety and effectiveness.

 Early or limited evidence

Women with PMS

## What they did

A review of evidence for complementary and alternative therapies used to treat PMS.

## What they found

Complementary and alternative therapies are used widely by women with PMS, but their efficacy and safety are not always proven. The evidence base is sparse and controversial. Most women self-diagnose and self-treat.

## What it means for you

Many women try alternative treatments without strong scientific support. Doctors should understand what treatments women are using so they can discuss them. Better studies of these treatments are needed.

up to 95%

of population with some PMS symptoms

5%

of women with severe PMS

## About the study

Original title Premenstrual syndrome and the use of alternative therapies Authors Domoney CL, Vashisht A, Studd JW Journal Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences Year 2003 Study design Review What was tested Complementary and alternative therapies Read the paper [doi.org/10.1196/annals.1290.036](https://doi.org/10.1196/annals.1290.036)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)

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