PMDD: Understanding and Support

Resource Guide for Podcast Listeners

What is PMDD?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a very severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It causes a range of emotional and physical symptoms every month during the week or two before your period. It's sometimes referred to as 'severe PMS'.

Symptoms

The symptoms of PMDD are similar to the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). But if you have PMDD, these symptoms can be much worse. PMDD is also different for different people. You might also experience things which aren't listed here.

Emotional and behavioural experiences

  • Mood swings

  • Feeling upset or tearful, for example if you feel that others are rejecting you

  • Lack of energy

  • Less interest in activities you normally enjoy

  • Feeling hopeless

  • Feeling angry or irritable

  • Coming into conflict with people around you

  • Feeling anxious, tense or on edge

  • Feeling overwhelmed or out of control

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Suicidal feelings

Physical experiences

  • Breast tenderness or swelling

  • Pain in your muscles and joints

  • Headaches

  • Feeling bloated

  • Changes in your appetite, such as overeating or having specific food cravings

  • Sleep problems

As PMDD is linked to your menstrual cycle, it's unlikely you'll experience symptoms if you're pregnant. But the symptoms may return once you begin ovulating again.

Diagnosis

To get a diagnosis of PMDD, the best place to start is to talk to your GP.

To help them understand your symptoms, your GP may:

  • Ask you to keep a detailed record of your symptoms for at least 2 months. This may be in a diary, or they may give you daily questionnaires to fill out. This is to see if your symptoms have a pattern over time.

  • Ask about your medical history, such as any history of mental health problems.

  • Ask about your lifestyle, such as if you smoke or drink alcohol, and how much you weigh. 

  • Give you a physical examination along with some blood tests, so that they can rule out other medical problems.

They might ask you to record your symptoms over several months. This could make getting diagnosed feel like a very slow process. It can be frustrating if you have to wait a long time to get treatment.

Treatment Options Available in Scotland

Support Services in Scotland

NHS Resources

  • NHS 24 (Call 111)

  • Local GP services

  • Mental health crisis teams

  • Women's health clinics

Support Organisations

  • PMDD & Me Charity (UK-based)

  • Mind (Mental health charity with Scottish services)

  • Breathing Space Scotland

  • Scottish Women's Health Network

Online Communities

  • PMDD Support Scotland (Facebook group)

  • International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD)

  • Reddit r/PMDD community

Research and Advocacy

Current Research

  • Ongoing studies at Scottish universities

  • UK-wide PMDD research initiatives

  • International clinical trials

  • Genetic research developments

Advocacy Groups

  • PMDD advocacy organizations

  • Women's health campaign groups

  • Mental health advocacy networks

Emergency Contacts

Immediate Help

  • Emergency Services: 999

  • NHS 24: 111

  • Samaritans: 116 123

  • Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87

About This Resource

This guide was created to accompany a podcast episode featuring personal experiences with PMDD. While comprehensive, it should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult healthcare providers for personal medical decisions.