Let's Talk About Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Premenstrual Syndrome, or more commonly known as PMS, is a combination of symptoms experienced by women before their menstrual cycle. The symptoms range from bloating, headaches, mood swings, and anxiety. It is estimated 3 out of 4 menstruating women will experience PMS2. A percentage of women experience a form of PMS that has more severe, debilitating symptoms. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, or PMDD, is a more severe form of PMS affecting up to eight percent of menstruating women2.

Symptoms of PMDD can be grouped into different categories such as psychological, gastrointestinal, neurological, and skin. The most common symptoms can include but are not limited to: depression, irritability, severe mood swings, headaches, constipation or changes in appetite and diminished libido3. Other symptoms can be decreased ability to function socially, at work and loss of concentration. Since PMDD presents with a wide range of symptoms, it can mimic other conditions and it is often misdiagnosed as an anxiety disorder or bipolar disorder1.

The factors associated with an increased risk for developing PMDD are women with a family history of PMDD, personal history of depression or mood disorders and cigarette smoking. Diagnosis of PMDD includes taking a complete medical history, physical exam, and assessing the symptoms the patient is experiencing1. As there are not many diagnostic tests to confirm PMDD, the condition is recognized based on the symptoms that are present over the course of a year of the woman’s menstrual cycle; five or more of the symptoms previously mentioned need to be present to make the diagnosis1.

The treatment of PMDD mainly focuses on ways to diminish or decrease the severity of the symptoms. Non-pharmacological treatments can include implementing a regular exercise regimen, meditation and stress management, and changes in the diet such as decreasing sugar and alcohol intake1. Some pharmacological treatments that may provide benefits are birth control pills, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), and anti-inflammatory medications1.

If you feel you’re experiencing any of the presented symptoms, please consult with your physician to see what the best next steps can be for your health and well-being.

References:

University , H. (2019, November 19). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved September 16, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd

Premenstrual dysphoria disorder: It's biology, not a behavior choice. Harvard Health. (2017, May 30). Retrieved September 16, 2022, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/premenstrual-dysphoria-disorder-its-biology-not-a-behavior-choice-2017053011768

R;, M. S. E. H. M. (n.d.). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved September 16, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30335340/