Premenstrual syndrome (better known as PMS) is so common that it’s easy to shrug off the signs. If you have a period, you most likely experience some degree of PMS symptoms. As a result, it can be challenging to recognize when your mood changes are severe enough to be something more serious. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize the difference between PMS and PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
What is PMDD?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a hormone disorder that causes intense emotional and physical symptoms in the days or weeks leading up to the menstrual period. The symptoms occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This is the two weeks between ovulation (when an ovary releases an egg) and menstruation. These symptoms tend to go away within a few days of the period starting.
PMDD has a lot in common with mood disorders. An episode of PMDD may feel a lot like intense depression and/or anxiety. This may have something to do with serotonin levels. A drop in estrogen levels (which happens in the luteal phase) generally leads to a drop in serotonin levels. One theory is that people with PMDD may be more sensitive to these hormonal changes. Learn more about what PMDD is here.
What is the difference between PMS and PMDD?
PMS and PMDD have a lot in common. In the days or weeks leading up to menstruation, both may cause:
Sadness and irritability
Bodily tension
Menstrual cramps
Breast tenderness
Digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea
However, the mood changes from PMDD tend to be much more severe. You may feel intense anger, sadness, hopelessness, or despair. You may cry a lot and for “no reason.” These feelings may be severe enough to disrupt everyday life, affect your relationships, disrupt you at work, or even lead to suicidal ideation (having thoughts about suicide).
On the other hand, PMS symptoms are not usually disabling, crippling, or disruptive. Symptoms may be unpleasant and annoying — and cramps can certainly be painful. However, most people can generally cope with PMS symptoms without it completely derailing their day (or overall health).
Talk to your doctor if it seems like your “PMS” seems severe. It may be a sign that you actually have PMDD. The good news is that there are treatment options for PMDD, which may help level out your mood and improve your quality of life, no matter what phase of the menstrual cycle you’re in.
References
Office on Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2021). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Office on Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2021). Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Yan, H. (2021). Suicidality in patients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Affective Disorders.
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