The occurrence and repetition of a series of physical and psychological symptoms during the luteal phase has been recognized as a phenomenon for centuries. This phenomenon, known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), varies in severity and encompasses a wide range of physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms with an unclear cause.
Epidemiological Findings Epidemiological studies indicate that approximately 75% of women experience physical and psychological symptoms before menstruation, but severe cases are reported in only 5% of instances. Although premenstrual behavioral changes were described by Hippocrates, the term “premenstrual syndrome” was first used in 1950 to describe physical and psychological symptoms that begin around two weeks before menstruation and subside with the onset of menstrual bleeding.
Importance of Symptoms The significance of these symptoms is such that they can lead to the breakdown of family relationships, personal matters, and disruption of professional functioning. A single etiology cannot explain all symptoms, and many specialists consider this syndrome a multifactorial disorder. Numerous potential causes have been suggested for these symptoms, none of which have been definitively proven. PMS is diagnosed when mood, behavioral, or physical symptoms, or a combination of them, consistently occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve shortly after the onset of menstruation. It must not be present for at least a week during the follicular phase and cause disruption to daily activities.
Disagreement About Treatment In addition to disagreement about the causes of these symptoms, there is also a lack of consensus regarding their treatment, with over 300 different treatments suggested. Some believe that low magnesium levels in the red blood cells of women with PMS symptoms may be the cause. Daily vitamin B6 supplementation, based on studies, may be effective in treating premenstrual syndrome. In Europe, the use of vitamin B6 supplements as a treatment has been accepted, though results in this area are inconclusive. Further studies are required to confirm the effects of vitamin B6 on PMS symptoms.
Role of the Syndrome Given the impact of this syndrome on individual and social problems, as well as the affordability, accessibility, and safety of vitamin B6, this research aims to determine the effect of vitamin B6 on premenstrual syndrome.
Research Results The findings of this study indicate a positive effect of vitamin B6 on reducing PMS symptoms. Data analysis suggests that vitamin B6 plays a positive role in reducing symptoms of:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Breast tenderness
Most studies conducted on this subject also report a positive effect of vitamin B6 on reducing PMS symptoms. The acceptance of the role of pyridoxine phosphate (the active form of vitamin B6) in the proper synthesis of various neurotransmitters can explain the reduction in symptoms like depression, anxiety, restlessness, sleepiness, and breast tenderness observed in this study.
Results of Other Studies Although research in this area shows mixed results, the number of studies supporting the positive effect of vitamin B6 on controlling PMS symptoms is notable. To improve PMS symptoms, high doses of vitamin B6 are needed for a prolonged period (throughout the entire menstrual cycle). Researchers have indicated that a decrease in red blood cells may contribute to PMS symptoms, possibly through a reduction in brain dopamine and an increase in aldosterone. This deficiency can be corrected with pyridoxine. Given the role of pyridoxine in water metabolism, regulation of adrenal hormones, and synthesis of some amino acids as cofactors, vitamin B6 supplementation throughout the menstrual cycle can reduce PMS symptoms.
Findings from Other Studies Some researchers conducted a study on 124 participants with a dose of 150 mg and observed a significant reduction in all symptoms in both the intervention and control groups. Other studies have reported similar results.
It seems that differences in the results reported by studies may be due to variations in the characteristics of the women participants, the dosage of vitamin B6, the duration of treatment, and the methods of data analysis.
Benefits of Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6 is a useful, inexpensive, and moderately effective treatment for PMS symptoms. Although there are many antidepressants available for treating psychological symptoms, they are more expensive and have numerous side effects.
Conclusion Based on the findings of this research, the use of vitamin B6 throughout the menstrual cycle is recommended to control PMS symptoms, although high doses of this medication should be used with caution.
References Salehi L, Salehi F. Comparative study of vitamin B6 versus placebo in premenstrual syndrome. SJKU 2007; 12 (3): 42-49