PMS vs PMDD: Do you know the difference?
PMDD is “premenstrual dysphoric disorder” and affects 3-8% of women in their reproductive years.
PMDD mirrors PMS in many ways, but is distinct in the severity of the emotional symptoms. In fact, 9 of the top 10 symptoms reported by women diagnosed with PMDD are related to the mind.
“The degree of disability and impairment in quality of life reported by women with PMDD is very similar to what is reported by patients with other depressive or anxiety disorders” including major depressive disorder (MDD).
For women with PMDD, these emotional symptoms cause significant distress and/or interfere with work, school, usual social activities, or relationships with others. The main differentiating factor from MDD is that PMDD is cyclical – meaning it occurs monthly during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
Like PMS, there is no simple test to diagnose PMDD. Diagnosis is made based on your history, the timing of your symptoms, daily rating of symptoms over multiple cycles, and ruling out other causes of your symptoms.
Start tracking your cycle with this free PMS Symptom Tracker and get to know your symptoms.
Book an appointment here or talk to your current healthcare provider about your treatment options. We can work together to balance your hormones, support your body’s natural healing abilities and improve your mental wellness so you can reclaim your menstrual cycle and feel more like yourself!
