PMS Gummies: Do They Really Work?

Updated on October 11, 2023

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Medically reviewed by Nigar Sofiyeva, MD, PhD Candidate

Dealing with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can be challenging for many women. The market for PMS products has expanded. Among the options available are gummy vitamins that make many promises to offer relief. It is crucial to examine these claims critically and look at evidence about their safety and effectiveness. Read on to arm yourself with information to make the best, most informed decision for your health.

PMS gummies are a supplement designed to relieve PMS symptoms.
Different brands have varying formulas. They contain vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts claimed to reduce discomfort during the menstrual cycle.
Scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of PMS gummies is limited, and results may vary from person to person.
Most people report mild to no side effects. Some people have experienced more concerning side effects.

What are PMS gummies?

You can find many supplements in gummy form these days. While the sugar may not be the best for health, and the thick gel of the gummy may not be the best for absorbing beneficial ingredients, gummies are enjoyable to eat. PMS gummies are a popular supplement. They often contain vitamins like B6, minerals such as magnesium and calcium, and herbal extracts like chasteberry and evening primrose oil. Manufacturers claim these ingredients work together to balance your hormones and make PMS a breeze.

Do PMS gummies work?

The ingredients in PMS gummies may influence hormonal balance and promote relaxation. Manufacturers say the specific combinations of ingredients address multiple symptoms, like cramps, bloating, cravings, and mood swings. However, it is wise to evaluate these claims from a scientific perspective.

So, what does the science say?

Ingredient	May help with	Effectiveness	Safety
Chasteberry	Hormonal acne Mood swings Breast tenderness	Preliminary studies show it may help symptoms of PMS and breast tenderness. The evidence is not conclusive.	Studies show most people tolerate it well in small amounts. Side effects may include nausea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, and itching.
Dong quai	Cramps Bloating	Few scientific studies have evaluated it for PMS. Effectiveness is not proven.	Safety information is lacking. There are many reported potential side effects. Some are serious.
Lemon balm	Cramps Digestive trouble Stress	Several studies show it significantly decreases PMS symptoms.	Few studies on safety exist. There are minimal reported side effects. It may make you drowsy and interact with thyroid medication.
Evening primrose oil	Breast tenderness	Evidence is mixed. May help with breast tenderness. May need to be used for 4 to 6 months to show effects.	Probably safe for most adults. May cause temporary gastrointestinal symptoms.
Magnesium	Bloating Muscle tension	The American College of Gynecologists recommends it as a possible way to help with PMS symptoms.	Taking too much can cause nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.
Vitamin B6	Mood swings Cravings	Studies show it is effective in helping with PMS symptoms. It may have a better effect when combined with calcium.	Very high doses can cause involuntary muscle movements and nerve damage.

While some women find relief from their PMS symptoms after using these gummies, scientific evidence is limited. Your response to PMS gummies can vary. The severity of your symptoms, overall health, and specific hormone balance may influence how well they work.

Possible side effects of PMS gummies

Most people report that PMS gummies are well tolerated. However, some reviews say users have experienced jitteriness, stiff jaw, folliculitis (painful ingrown hair), anxiety attacks, mood swings, breast tenderness, and worsening PMS. It is difficult to say if the gummies caused these symptoms.

Since the ingredients affect your hormonal balance and are not entirely understood, it may be wise to proceed with caution. What works well in one person’s body may not work in another.

Safety considerations

Here are some important safety points to keep in mind:

Talk to your doctor. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. They can evaluate potential interactions and determine if the supplement is safe for you. They may also be able to recommend medications to treat your PMS symptoms.
Dosage. Take the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer or as advised by your doctor. In some cases, the best dose of certain ingredients is unknown. Keep this in mind when you are considering safety.
Quality. Choose reputable brands that can document safe manufacturing practices. Look for certification from third-party organizations like NSF or USP to ensure the product meets quality standards.
Allergens. Check the ingredient list carefully to avoid any potential allergens or substances you might be sensitive to.
Pregnancy. Certain ingredients in PMS gummies — dong quai, chasteberry, and potentially others — are not safe to while you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.

Cost of PMS gummies

The cost of a monthly supply of PMS gummies ranges from $15 to $40, depending on the ingredients and quantity of gummies. While cost is a consideration, it is essential to prioritize the quality and efficacy of the product over price alone.

Tips to get the best effects

If you try PMS gummies, follow these tips to maximize their potential benefit:

Be consistent. Take the gummies regularly as directed to maintain a consistent level of the active ingredients in your body.
Live a healthy lifestyle. If you use PMS gummies, remember that they can not replace the effects of a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage stress to enhance overall well-being.
Keep track of symptoms. Monitor your PMS symptoms to see if the gummies are helping. If you notice side effects or improvements, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other ways to treat PMS symptoms naturally

Several natural remedies can help alleviate PMS symptoms:

Eat well. Get a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit caffeine, salt, and sugar to reduce bloating and mood swings.
Get exercise. Physical activity can boost your mood and reduce stress.
Sip tea. Certain herbal teas, including chamomile and ginger, may provide relaxation and comfort during PMS.
Learn mindfulness. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can promote relaxation and emotional balance.

PMS gummies offer a convenient and potentially beneficial approach to managing premenstrual symptoms. However, their effectiveness varies among individuals, and scientific evidence supporting their claims is limited. Some people have reported concerning side effects. Before starting any new supplement, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and suitability for you.