Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder associated with the menstrual cycle. It causes significant emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms during the luteal phase (the time between ovulation and the start of menstruation), typically worsening in the week before menstruation and improving shortly after menstruation begins. Key aspects of PMDD:
- It is much more serious than typical premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Symptoms include intense irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings, tension, panic attacks, fatigue, food cravings, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like cramps, bloating, and breast tenderness.
- PMDD causes significant distress or functional impairment in daily life, affecting work, social activities, and relationships.
- The condition is believed to be related to sensitivity in brain pathways to the natural fluctuations of ovarian hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone.
- About 5-8% of menstruating women experience PMDD.
- Diagnosis requires at least five symptoms that occur in most menstrual cycles over a year, with symptoms being severe enough to disrupt normal functioning.
- Treatments include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), hormonal therapies like oral contraceptives, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes.
PMDD profoundly impacts quality of life and increases risks such as suicidal thoughts. It is recognized as a depressive disorder in medical classification manuals like the DSM-5 and ICD-11. In summary, PMDD is a cyclical, hormone- based, and severe mood disorder that significantly impairs daily function in affected women during the premenstrual phase of their cycle. It is different from and more debilitating than typical PMS. If you want, I can provide more details about symptoms, diagnosis criteria, or treatment options. Let me know! This information is based on medical sources and current research on PMDD.
