NANP Board Practice Exam

PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is largely influenced by hormonal changes in the body, particularly involving the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, and ovarian hormones. The adrenal glands have a role in the overall hormonal balance, particularly in managing stress responses, while the thyroid gland is vital for regulating metabolism and energy levels, which can also affect PMS symptoms.

Ovarian hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, are directly associated with the menstrual cycle and fluctuations in these hormones are key contributors to PMS. Dysfunction in any of these systems can lead to various symptoms associated with PMS.

In contrast, the kidneys, while essential for many bodily functions, including the regulation of fluid balance and waste excretion, do not have a direct impact on the hormonal changes that characterize PMS. Therefore, they are not primarily related to the dysfunction linked with PMS symptoms. This makes the kidneys an exception in this context.