What You Need to Know About PMDD

In India, approximately 3.1% of the menstruating population experience Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

If you menstruate, you have likely experienced PMS since you started your period. Worldwide, 47.8% of menstruating individuals report experiencing symptoms of PMS, with 1 in 20 individuals dealing with PMDD. 

While PMDD causes emotional and physical symptoms like PMS, it is far more draining. PMDD can interfere with your daily life, including work, school, and social life. 

Also read: Is It Time to Ask For Help?

What is PMDD?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but far more severe. Symptoms appear a week or two before menstruation as your hormone levels fluctuate. With PMDD, you may experience increased irritability, tension, and symptoms of depression.

PMDD is a chronic health issue which may require medical attention. However, with proper treatment, healthy self-care habits, and lifestyle changes, managing its symptoms is easy. While researchers can't pinpoint exactly why PMDD occurs, a few factors may contribute to it. 

Mainly, hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle are thought to play a crucial role. Decreasing estrogen and progesterone trigger changes in serotonin, a brain chemical. Since serotonin helps regulate your sleep, mood, and appetite, it has a significant impact on your physical and mental health. 

Besides hormones, research has also implicated genetics in the development of PMDD.

What are the symptoms of PMDD?

PMDD causes physical and psychological symptoms, which can appear a week or two before menstruation. However, they usually go away within a few days after your period starts. Besides common PMS symptoms such as cramps, fatigue, and food craving, you may experience:

• Symptoms of depression

• Signs of anxiety, such as panic attacks

• Trouble focusing

• Insomnia

• Headaches

• Mood swings

• Increased irritability

• Loss of interest in daily activities

• Bloating

• Joint or muscle pain

These symptoms are often exhausting enough to keep you from your daily work.

Also read: The Lethargy Cycle of Depression

Risk Factors and Diagnosis

While any individual who menstruates can experience PMDD, it is more common among those older than 26. Besides age, other factors can also increase your risk of experiencing PMDD, commonly:

• a family history of PMDD or PMS

• a personal history of mood disorders such as clinical depression or post-partum depression

• a personal history of anxiety disorders

Signs of PMDD can look similar to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other medical conditions. Hence, it is best to speak to a mental health professional, so you can start managing your symptoms. 

Before you are diagnosed with PMDD, you will need to track your symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles. Tracking your symptoms helps your healthcare provider get a clear picture of your issues and rule out any other conditions. 

Managing PMDD symptoms

If you are diagnosed with PMDD, your healthcare provider may recommend a few things to help manage your symptoms. In some cases, medication may be required. PMDD medication ranges from pain relief and birth control pills that help with physical issues, to antidepressants for tackling emotional symptoms.

Lifestyle changes, such as a change in diet, and healthy self-care habits, like regular exercise, can also help. Self-care habits can play a huge role in dealing with the emotional symptoms of PMDD in the long run. Since PMDD also worsens symptoms of depression, talking to a therapist may also be helpful. 

Also read: How to Start Healthy Habits

PMDD is chronic and can significantly affect your personal and professional life. If you experience symptoms of PMDD, such as depression, anxiety, and fatigue, leading up to your period, consider speaking to a mental health professional.