What is PMDD?

PMDD stands for premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It's most easily explained as a very severe case of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) that typically lasts longer than regular PMS. Statistics show that 3-9% of women of childbearing age suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (although not nearly that many have been officially diagnosed with it).

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder may cause women to have difficulty managing aspects of day to day life, which could include personal relationships and job performance. This is due to the extreme emotional turmoil the afflicted women are experiencing. This is a simplified explanation of the disorder - there is more information included in the actual definition.

The symptoms are very similar to (if not the same as) PMS symptoms. However, a minimum number must be present more often for it to be considered more than PMS. Also, the symptoms are more mood focused, and must be more severe.

The American Psychiatric Association has established diagnostic criteria for this disorder. There are also risk factors that should be reviewed if you think you may have something more severe than PMS.

Severe PMS isn't a new disorder that was just discovered in the last ten years. Premenstrual issues have existed throughout history. This also isn't unique to the United States or other developed nations - it does have a presence in other countries.

The good news is that there are many treatment options, such as medication, exercise, diet, alternative therapies, etc. These can be extremely beneficial in managing symptoms!

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