Integrative Health Consultant and Educator
Integrative Health Consultant and Educator

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

During the childbearing years, 3-5% of women experience physical and psychological symptoms that impair functioning. This is caused primarily by changes in hormone concentrations.
Symptoms of PMDD include the following:
• Depressed mood
• Anxiety
• Lability (sensitive, out of control)
• Irritability
• Decreased interest in usual activities
• Difficulty concentrating
• Marked lack of energy
• Marked change in appetite, or overeating/cravings
• Hypersomnia or insomnia
• Sense of being overwhelmed
• Breast tenderness, headaches
Symptoms must occur during the week before menses and remit a few days after the onset of the menses. Using a symptom tracking chart can aid as a guide for when medication would be beneficial in the cycle. Best meds for PMDD