By the Divine grace of Amma, Department of Physiology, Amrita School of Medicine conducted an online CME on Premenstrual syndrome – “Blues to Bloom” on September 17, 2022. PMS is a term vaguely used by females to define most of their physical and mental disturbances. This was an attempt from our side to demystify the facts and myths related to this.
The programme was inaugurated by Col. Dr. Vishal Marwaha, Principal, Amrita School of Medicine. Dr. Saraswathy L., Professor & HOD, Dept. of Physiology, AIMS, Kochi delivered the welcome address.
The first talk was on the Physiological basis of PMS, by Dr. Sheetal Laxmi Narayana (Professor, Department of Physiology, MES Medical college, Perinthalmanna). In her talk madam discussed about the various hormones and neurotransmitters that are believed to be responsible for the physical and emotional disturbances during PMS.The Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) considered to be a severe form of PMS was also elaborated upon by the speaker.
This was followed by a detailed session on Diagnosis, evaluation and management of the PMS by our International speaker Dr. Alice Kurien from Malaysia. Madam listed out the usual symptoms during PMS and how an effective history and proper physical examination can differentiate this from other clinical conditions presenting with similar features. The speaker highlighted how proper diagnosis and management can enable women to cope up with the condition
Dr. Dhanya (Assistant Professor, Clinical Psychology, AIMS, Kochi) touched upon the psychological aspects of PMS. She emphasised the importance of Cognitive behavior therapy that helps in the recognition of the behaviors during PMS and develop coping strategies to improve daily functioning.
Dr. Nivedita (HOD, Department of Clinical Nutrition) enlightened us on Nutrition and life style management of PMS. Madam stressed on the fact that treatment of PMS is symptomatic, beginning with adequate rest and sleep, regular exercise, and activities that are relaxing. Dietary changes like increasing protein, decreasing sugar, consuming complex carbohydrates, and eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding certain foods and drinks were also discussed in the session
Around 200 delegates attended each session. The program was well received by the attendees with many of them giving positive feedback for choosing such a relevant topic. Majority of the delegates opined that the sessions were crisp and informative
The session concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Suja Gopalakrishnan, Associate Professor, Physiology.
