Information About PMDD

See Dr. Yonker's recent interview in the New York Times

What is PMDD?

PMDD or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a combination of severe emotional and physical symptoms that occur 1-2 weeks before a woman's period. These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily activities, school, work or relationships. Many women may think they just have PMS, when it is actually PMDD.

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How is PMDD different from PMS?

Unlike PMS, PMDD always includes severe emotional symptoms, such as mood swings, anxiety, irritability or feelings of sadness or depression. Plus, symptoms of PMDD get so severe that they significantly interfere with daily activities, work, school, relationships and/or social interactions. While 40% of women of childbearing age experience at least one symptom of PMS,  between 3% to 8 % actually have PMDD. The major difference is in the severity of the symptoms.

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What are the common symptoms of PMDD?

Common symptoms of PMDD are mood swings, tension, irritability, fatigue, insomnia, poor concentration, headaches, bloating, muscle aches and food cravings, While these are also symptoms of PMS, with PMDD they are severe enough to impact the way you live your life.

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What causes PMDD?

So far, researchers have not found a difference in hormone levels between women with PMDD and women who do not have premenstrual symptoms.  While all women's hormones fluctuate throughout their menstrual cycles, women with PMDD seem to be more sensitive to these changes both physically and emotionally.  PMDD is more common if a relative also has PMDD, suggesting that genetic factors may contribute to the disorder.

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How is PMDD diagnosed?

Daily mood ratings across two or three menstrual cycles are used to make the diagnosis. A psychiatric and medical interview can identify other psychiatric and medical conditions which may be contributing to the premenstrual symptoms. Whether you have PMDD or another mood-related condition, a correct diagnosis will enable you to find an effective treatment plan.

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How is PMDD treated?

Currently FDA-approved medications for treatment of PMDD includes SSRI's (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and Yaz, a new oral contraceptive. There is evidence that other methods may be effective treatments for PMS, including exercise and calcium supplements, but it is unknown whether these treatments are effective for PMDD.

For more information, check out some of these helpful websites.