Premenstrual Syndrome & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Storm or Tsunami ?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a chronic condition experienced by menstruating women, and is characterised by distressing physical, behavioural and psychological symptoms that regularly recur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and that disappear or significantly diminish by the end of the period. .

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a cyclical, hormone-based mood disorder. Symptoms arise during the premenstrual, or luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and subside within a few days of menstruation. It affects an estimated 5.5% of women and AFAB individuals of reproductive age. It is not a hormone imbalance. It is a severe negative reaction in the brain to the natural rise and fall of oestrogen & progesterone.

Symptoms of PMDD can include...

Mood/emotional changes (e.g. mood swings, feeling suddenly sad or tearful, or increased sensitivity to rejection)
Irritability, anger, or increased interpersonal conflict
Depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness, feeling worthless or guilty
Anxiety, tension, or feelings of being keyed up or on edge
Decreased interest in usual activities (e.g., work, school, friends, hobbies)
Difficulty concentrating, focusing, or thinking – brain fog
Tiredness or low-energy
Changes in appetite, food cravings, overeating, or binge eating
Hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness) or insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)
Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
Physical symptoms such as breast tenderness or swelling, joint or muscle pain, bloating or weight gain

What treatment options are available?

Treatment options should be discussed in detail assessing individual needs, previous history and lifestyle. Book a consultation with our expert GP Dr Colinette Margerison, who can discuss what treatment options would be best for you.

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Further Resources

Me vs PMDD: Me v PMDD makes symptom tracking for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder incredibly simple and is accompanied by easy-to-read symptom graphs that can help you and your doctor understand and more effectively treat PMDD.
National Association for Pre-Menstrual Syndrome
The International Association For Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD)
Our PMS/PMDD Symtom Tracker