PMDD

What it is

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It causes a range of emotional and physical symptoms in the week or two before your period, during the part of your cycle called the luteal phase, which then ease once your period begins. For some people the emotional symptoms are severe enough to have a real impact on daily life, work and relationships.

Common symptoms

Symptoms follow your cycle and can include:

• mood swings, feeling tearful or upset
• lasting irritability, anger or feeling on edge
• anxiety, low mood, or feelings of hopelessness
• losing interest in things you usually enjoy
• difficulty concentrating, and tiredness or low energy
• physical symptoms such as breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, or aches

Why the pattern matters

The emotional symptoms of PMDD are often put down to mental health alone, and the link to the menstrual cycle can be missed. What sets PMDD apart is its timing: symptoms appear in the run-up to your period and lift soon after it starts. Recognising that pattern usually takes tracking across several cycles.

How tracking helps

This is where a symptom record is especially valuable. Logging how you feel each day across a few cycles can reveal the cyclical timing that's central to identifying PMDD, and a Doctor's Report gives your clinician a clear picture to work from.

Where to get support

• NHS: PMS and PMDD
• International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD)

If your premenstrual symptoms are severe or affecting your daily life, speak to your GP. If you are struggling to cope or having thoughts of harming yourself, contact your GP, call 111, or call the Samaritans on 116 123 (UK).

Sister Health does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 999 in the UK or 111 in New Zealand.