Causes & Mechanism
Exact cause is not fully understood, but involves:
- Hormonal fluctuations (estrogen, progesterone)
- Neurotransmitter changes (serotonin, GABA)
- Lifestyle factors (stress, poor sleep, diet, lack of exercise)
- Sensitivity to normal cyclic hormonal changes
Common Symptoms
Physical:
- Breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, fatigue
- Changes in appetite, joint or muscle pain
Emotional/Behavioral:
- Irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression
- Trouble concentrating, sleep disturbances
- Social withdrawal
Differential Diagnosis
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): more severe, affecting daily functioning
Thyroid disorders, depression, anxiety—must be ruled out
PMS vs. PMDD: Understanding the Difference Many women experience Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) — mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, and irritability before their period.But for some, the symptoms are far more severe. This is called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
PMS
- Common (affects up to 75% of women)
- Symptoms: mild–moderate mood changes, bloating, fatigue, breast tenderness
- Usually manageable with lifestyle changes and simple medication
PMDD
Less common (3–8% of women)
Symptoms: severe depression, anxiety, anger, difficulty functioning, even suicidal thoughts
Not “just PMS” — it’s a serious medical condition that needs professional support
Why Awareness Matters:
Too many women are told to “just deal with it” or “it’s all in your head.” But PMDD is real, diagnosable, and treatable.With the right care — from lifestyle adjustments to SSRIs or specific contraceptives — women can take back control of their health and daily life.
Management
1. Lifestyle & Self-Care
- Regular exercise
- Adequate sleep & stress management (yoga, meditation)
- Balanced diet: reduce caffeine, sugar, salt, alcohol
- Increase complex carbs & hydration
2. Medical Treatment
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain
- SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline) for severe mood symptoms
- Oral contraceptive pills to stabilize hormonal fluctuations
- Calcium, Vitamin B6, Magnesium supplements may help
- One popular option is Evening Primrose Oil (EPO).
- Rich in Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), which may reduce breast tenderness, irritability, and bloating.
- Needs to be taken regularly (1000–3000 mg daily) for 2–3 cycles to see results.
3. Counseling
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) shown to improve coping
- Keeping a symptom diary helps diagnosis and monitoring