Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a health condition linked to changing hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle. After ovulation, hormones like estrogen and progesterone decrease in the body, and they stay low until the start of the period. These hormone changes are also what cause PMS. However, people with PMDD are more sensitive to these hormone changes, causing intense, disruptive mental and physical symptoms.
References
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health. (2021). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2022). Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
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Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
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Sarah Gupta, MDSarah Gupta, MD, is a licensed physician with a special interest in mental health, sex and gender, eating disorders, and the human microbiome. She is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
