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Do your premenstrual symptoms feel excessive, extreme, or unbearable? If so, it might be more than just PMS.
You could be experiencing the intense and overwhelming effects of premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD). Here’s what you need to know about this serious condition and how Beach House can help.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and can significantly impact a woman’s mental and physical health in the week or two leading up to menstruation.
This chronic condition leads to significantly more intense emotional and physical symptoms every menstrual cycle, which can disrupt daily activities, work, and relationships. PMDD may cause PMS symptoms along with extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Estrogen and serotonin levels typically fluctuate during a woman’s cycle. However, those with PMDD may experience a more pronounced drop in estrogen, and therefore, serotonin, resulting in more severe and disruptive symptoms.
Some women have a higher risk of developing severe premenstrual symptoms because of variations in their genes related to estrogen and progesterone receptors.
Environmental factors like stress, lifestyle habits, and social support can also worsen PMDD symptoms in women who are genetically predisposed.
About 75% of women experience PMS symptoms, while only 2-5% experience PMDD. If you or your loved one struggles with severe PMS symptoms and think you may have PMDD, consult your healthcare provider to find out if you need premenstrual dysphoric disorder treatment.
Your healthcare provider will review your medical history, including whether you or an immediate relative has been diagnosed with a psychiatric or mental health disorder.
They will also ask you to keep a cycle and symptom diary for a few months to track your mood symptoms and how they align with your menstrual cycle.
To be diagnosed with PMDD, you must have at least one mood-related symptom and at least four other symptoms that come and go with your cycle. Other diagnostic tests may include:
Depending on the severity of symptoms, your healthcare provider may provide antidepressants or hormonal therapy to help regulate your estrogen, progesterone, and serotonin levels throughout your cycle.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is recommended for premenstrual dysphoric disorder treatment and those struggling with intense premenstrual symptoms. This type of talk therapy helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns that can worsen premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms.
It teaches effective techniques, coping skills, and self-care practices to help you manage negative thoughts and build emotional resistance.
In addition to medications, your healthcare provider may also recommend certain lifestyle habits to naturally increase serotonin levels, lower anxiety, and support more restorative sleep—all of which can help reduce symptoms of PMDD. These changes may include:
Beach House Center for Recovery offers proven CBT counseling to help you find emotional healing and a renewed sense of peace.
Are you regularly experiencing one or more of the symptoms listed above before and during menstruation? Have you been diagnosed with PMDD? If so, we recommend talking to a premenstrual dysphoric disorder specialist about your treatment options.
PMDD symptoms can be serious if left untreated, but with the right treatment, you can relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
PMDD does not have to control your life. At Beach House, we offer compassionate, personalized care to help you manage your symptoms and find relief. Contact our helpful and compassionate admissions counselors today and take the first step.
