Supplements for the menstrual cycle are often studied in the context of correcting deficiencies and/or reducing the symptoms of conditions like premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, and polycystic ovary syndrome. For example, vitamin D deficiency is associated with dysmenorrhea and abnormal menstrual bleeding patterns, in which case supplementing with vitamin D to correct the deficiency could be beneficial.[1][2] Additional supplements that might improve menstrual-related symptoms (with varying levels of efficacy) include chaste tree, magnesium, vitamin B6 and B1, ginger, calcium, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, and inositol.[3][4][5][6][7][8][2]
Another supplement that is often studied in menstruating people is iron because blood loss via menstruation can reduce iron levels in the body, especially if the bleeding is heavy.[1] Iron may also be lost during exercise.[9] Because iron is used to make red blood cells, a deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, which means that the blood cannot carry enough oxygen throughout the body. Iron supplementation is an effective treatment for iron deficiency.[10][11]
Before beginning any supplements, it is important for menstrual-related symptoms to be evaluated by a clinician. Some supplements, like iron, can cause damage if excessive amounts accumulate in the body. Such accumulation is rarely the result of excessive oral intake and is instead secondary to other underlying medical problems, both congenital and acquired. [12]