PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder)
Find out about PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), including symptoms, treatment options, support and getting help.
Symptoms of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) usually start around 1 or 2 weeks before each period.
Symptoms usually improve a few days after your period starts. They can include:
Emotional symptoms
- feeling depressed, hopeless, anxious, or worried
- feeling angry or irritable
- having less interest in things you normally enjoy
- feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- having suicidal thoughts
Physical symptoms
- breast tenderness
- joint and muscle pain
- feeling more tired than usual
- having problems sleeping or sleeping too much
- bloating (where your tummy feels full and uncomfortable)
Symptoms of PMDD can be similar to symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), but are more intense. They can make it difficult to work, socialise and maintain relationships.
If you think you may have PMDD, it's important to get help because treatment and support can help manage your symptoms.
See a GP if:
- you think you might have PMDD
Getting urgent mental health help
Support is available if you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you're going through.
If a GP thinks you might have PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) they will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your life.
The GP may diagnose PMDD if:
- your symptoms happen every month, around 1 or 2 weeks before your period
- you've been having symptoms for at least 2 months
It may be helpful to keep a diary of your symptoms for at least 2 menstrual cycles to share with your GP.
Treatment for PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) usually focuses on helping manage your symptoms.
The main treatments a GP may offer include:
- medicines to help with feelings of anxiety or depression – usually a type of antidepressant called an SSRI
- painkillers or anti-inflammatory medicine to help joint or muscle aches, such as ibruprofen or naproxen
- hormonal treatments to help manage your hormone levels, such as the combined contraceptive pill (also called the pill)
- talking therapies to find ways to manage your feelings, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
If these treatments have not helped, surgery may be considered with the aim of stopping your PMDD symptoms by stopping your periods.
Surgery may involve removing your ovaries, fallopian tubes or womb (hysterectomy). It's not suitable if you want to get pregnant.
There are some things you can do that may help ease PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) symptoms.
Do
exercise regularly
eat a balanced diet – you may find eating smaller meals every 2 to 3 hours helps your symptoms
get plenty of sleep
try mindfulness, where you focus on the present moment
take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to ease any pain
try to quit smoking
drink less alcohol - try to avoid drinking more than 14 units of alcohol a week
It's not known exactly what causes PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder).
It may be caused by increased sensitivity to the natural hormone changes that happen during your menstrual cycle, especially changes to your level of oestrogen and progesterone.
PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) can be difficult to live with, both physically and emotionally.
As well as support from your GP, you may find it helpful to get support from other people with PMDD, either at a local support group or online.
Online or local support groups
Find online and local mental health support groups.
Emotional support
Get confidential support from trained volunteers.
- Call 116 123 for free to talk to Samaritans
Support for family, friends and carers
If you care about someone who has PMDD, you can get advice and support from charities.
More information and advice
You can get more information and advice about PMDD on charity websites.
