Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more serious form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS causes bloating, headaches and breast tenderness a week or two before your period.

With PMDD, you might have PMS symptoms along with extreme irritability, anxiety or depression. These symptoms improve within a few days after your period starts, but they can be severe enough to interfere with your life.

How common is PMDD?

PMDD affects up to 10% of women who have periods.

Who might get PMDD?

You may be more prone to PMDD if you have:

• Anxiety or depression.
• PMS.
• Family history of PMS, PMDD or mood disorders.

What causes PMDD?

Experts don’t know why some women get PMDD. Decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones after ovulation and before menstruation may trigger symptoms. Serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates mood, hunger and sleep, may also play a role. Serotonin levels, like hormone levels, change throughout your menstrual cycle.

What are the symptoms of PMDD?

PMDD symptoms appear a week or two before menstruation and go away within a few days after your period starts. In addition to PMS symptoms, you may have:

• Anger or irritability.
• Anxiety and panic attacks.
• Depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Fatigue and low energy.
• Food cravings or binge eating.
• Headaches.
• Insomnia.
• Mood swings.