Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (P.M.D.D)

PMDD is a serious condition that can affect a woman's quality of life and well-being. It is important to seek professional help if you experience any of the symptoms of PMDD and they interfere with your normal activities. There are effective treatments available that can help you manage your condition and improve your mood and health.

Some of the common symptoms of PMDD include:

- Depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts

- Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or low self-esteem

- Fatigue, insomnia, or hypersomnia

- Bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, or joint pain

- Food cravings or appetite changes

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) affects about 5% of women (AFAB) who have regular menstrual cycles. PMDD causes intense psychological, emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and relationships. The symptoms usually start in the second half of the cycle and subside within a few days after menstruation begins.

Some women with PMDD may say things like:

- I feel hopeless and worthless

- I can't cope with anything

- I hate myself and everyone around me

- I have no energy or motivation

- I just want to cry or scream

PMDD is a mood disorder that affects some women during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. The luteal phase is the time between ovulation and menstruation, when hormone levels change. Women with PMDD experience severe emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with their daily life and relationships.  PMDD can be treated with antidepressants that affect serotonin levels in the brain or hormone therapies that suppress ovulation in conjunction with psychological support.

The exact cause of PMDD is unknown, but it may be related to hormonal fluctuations, brain chemistry changes, genetic factors, or environmental stressors. PMDD can be diagnosed by a health care provider based on the severity and timing of the symptoms and their impact on daily life.

PMDD can be treated with a combination of options such as:

- Counselling and Psychotherapy or Psychology for awareness and behavioural management 

- Medications such as antidepressants and/or oral contraception

- Hormone therapy - ovulation suppression

- Nutritional supplements such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, or omega-3 fatty acids

- Lifestyle changes such as exercise, relaxation techniques, diet modification

We have successfully assisted women to get their life back living with PMDD.

Our team of experts offers personalized treatment plans that include medication psychoeducation, therapy and lifestyle changes.

We understand the challenges and frustrations of living with PMDD and we are here to support you every step of the way. 

If you have PMDD or suspect you might have it, you are not alone. There are treatments and coping strategies that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your mental health.

Talk to us, your doctor or mental health provider about your options.