Menstrual suppression and bad PMS?

So, I have panic attacks and frequent depression which is, of course, exaherbated by my menstrual cycle. Damn being a woman some times!

Well, anyways, I'm on 'the pill' which helps a lot with making the PMS blues a lot easier and shorter lived and wondering about menstrual supression. Since I get PMS before I'm even finished taking my active pills, would moving on to the next pack help or make this problem last longer? (PMS goes away after a day or few of bleeding)

Obviously, our bodies adjust to 'the pill' and the artificial cycle, so maybe my body knows that cylce. If I go on a three month cycle, would I only get PMS once every three months? Or would I have 1 month of stability and 2 months of my 'pms hell'?

Any sources on this subject would be greatly appreciated.

And yes, of course, in addition to 'the pill' I do try improving my lifestyle and thought processes in order and am considering antidepressants to combat my anxiety/mood issues.

This isn't really based on any source, but just on my own (slight) knowledge of how 'the pill' works, and the menstrual cycle.

PMS actually occurs before your period, although it can extend to the week of your period as well. If you're dealing with PMDD (and it sounds like you are, on top of the other issues you mentioned - I have them too), then it's obviously a lot worse.

If the pill regulates the cycle, then it's really the pills you take the week before that cause the PMDD hormones to be released, and it seems like something like Seasonale would be weeks at a time of that hormone.

Of course, this is just a guess, but it seems like it could exacerbate the problem. Some women have had success with it, and naturally others haven't. I would try to talk to a specialist, if you can, and see what they have to say. Try looking up anything you can about menstrual suppression and it's side effects, and multiply any possible mood disorders caused by it, since I'm sure you know it may be just that much worse for you.

That's actually the main reason I didn't go for Seasonale when it came out - I'm just not really sure of how my own emotional health would be affected.

Hi, sorry to hear you鈥檙e feeling so bad. I'm not sure about the whole cycle thing - but you could try a different pill. My sister had very bad PMS which disappeared when the doctor put her on another pill.

I also found the following steps very useful in eliminating panic attacks, mild depression and anxiety:

1.Breathe properly - if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.

2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks, depression and anxiety etc. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. (After 15 years of panic attacks, mine stopped completely). You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: www.livinglifetothefull.com

3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. You can get free downloads online, e.g. http://www.studentservices.utas.edu.au/c...

With each step practise makes perfect. (i.e. practise the steps every day, not just when you are feeling bad). I hope you feel better soon. Best of luck!