Kindly explain the symptoms of PMDD.

Question

Hello doctor,

What are the symptoms that lead to a diagnosis of PMDD? Who tends to diagnose it - Is it mental health or OB/GYN? Why is this different from PMS? Why is it so underdiagnosed? (Could it possibly, maybe, perhaps be that medicine sometimes does not take 'women's issues' seriously?) Can it be related to hormonal birth control? Are there any treatments?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

PMDD is a premenstrual dysphoric disorder which is a form of premenstrual syndrome. In 85% of women experiencing PMS, only 5% have PMDD. It is an actually hormonal response of body near menses. It could occur if there is depression and can lead to the suicidal effect. It can show depression, mood swings, intense anger, tension, anxiety, fatigue, etc. It is a form of PMS more severe and disabling. It starts seven to ten days before periods and vanishes as periods start. A rapid decrease in estrogen could be a cause of this. Some hormonal treatments seem to be effective for this like combined oral contraceptive pills containing Levonorgestrel and Estradiol but continuously without placebo tablets; vitamin B, omega 3 fats, exercise, recreational activities, etc. Continue without placebo.