No scientific studies have proven that exercise can reduce PMS, but there is much anecdotal and indirect evidence that it does, doctors say. Moreover, she believes exercise may reduce water retention. Vitamin B6, known as pyridoxine, is recommended by some doctors to relieve PMS, but studies on its effectiveness have been inconclusive, according to Dawood. Use of extreme doses of it have been associated with neurological problems. For those whose PMS is unrelieved by most common treatments, more help is available.
Oral contraceptives prevent ovulation and therefore prevent the luteal phase from occurring.
Although progesterone suppositories have proven no more successful than a placebo in controlled studies, because they seem to help some women, Warren believes they are worthwhile.