By A.G.
Most people are aware of the term PMS, or premenstrual syndrome. This syndrome encompasses symptoms experienced by some people prior to the start of their period. These symptoms can be both physical and emotional in nature. PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, is a more severe form of PMS. People with PMDD typically experience more intense emotional symptoms as compared with PMS. While PMS is common, PMDD affects less than 10% of women.
Some of the emotional symptoms associated with PMS and PMDD include mood swings, irritability, depressed mood, and anxiety. Some of the physical symptoms include fatigue, breast tenderness, and bloating. These symptoms typically reoccur during the second half of the menstrual cycle (luteal phase) and resolve after menses (follicular phase). These symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life and day to day functioning. Because people who experience PMDD have more intense emotional symptoms, this can begin to affect personal relationships as well. One should reach out to a provider with concerns regarding either PMS or PMDD.
Treatment options include lifestyle changes such as increasing exercise and reducing stress levels, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), and/or medications. Medication options include medications commonly used for treating depression, such as selective serotonin receptors (SSRIs), or certain contraceptive medications. For women who elect to try SSRIs for their symptoms, there are different regimens (continuous vs luteal phase only), and patients should speak with their healthcare provider on which regimen would be best for them.