Understanding PMDD: A Severe Form of PMS

Pre-menstrual Dysphoric Disorder, or PMDD, is a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

It’s characterised by severe mood and behaviour changes after you ovulate and leading up to your period, usually occurring at least 7 days prior. The symptoms will often completely dissipate as soon as the period arrives.

Symptoms of PMDD

You must experience at least 1 of the 4 core symptoms listed below in the 7 days prior to your period:

• Marked affective lability (mood swings e.g suddenly tearful or increased sensitivity of rejection)
• Marked irritability or anger
• Markedly depressed mood
• Marked anxiety or tension

One of more of the following must also be present:

• Decreased interest in usual activities
• Difficulty in concentration
• Marked lack of energy
• Marked change in appetite e.g overeating specific foods
• Insomnia
• A sense of being overwhelmed or out of control
• Physical symptoms such as breast tenderness or swelling, weight gain or joint pain

What’s happening inside your body

PMDD is connected to hormones like progesterone and estrogen, which can work as chemicals in your brain.

Causes of PMDD

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing PMDD:

1. Genetics: If there’s a history of PMDD in your family, your genetic makeup might predispose you to this condition.
2. Trauma: A history of traumatic experiences, particularly emotional abuse, has been associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing PMDD. While the underlying reasons are multifaceted, it’s thought that the dysregulated activity of the HPA axis and subsequent changes in neurotransmission might be responsible.
3. Chronic Stress: Individuals with PMDD often exhibit a maladaptive response to stressors, linked to a flattened diurnal cortisol slope. This might make everyday events seem more stressful and heighten negative emotions during the luteal phase. Chronic stress also alters the composition of GABA-a receptors, reducing their normal functioning. This can partially explain why rising levels of allopregnanolone (ALLO) lead to increased stress reactions.
4. Other Mental Health Conditions: If you have bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health conditions, you might be at a higher risk of developing PMDD.

Natural Medicine Considerations for PMDD

• Saffron: A natural supplement, saffron, when taken twice a day over two menstrual cycles, has been shown to enhance mood in individuals with PMDD. This is thought to be due to the influence of saffron’s active constituents, crocin and safranal, which inhibit the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, contributing to mood improvement.
• Adaptogenic herbs: Certain herbal medicines with adaptogenic and nervine actions, like Withania somnifera and Chamomila recutita, may be beneficial for PMDD due to the observed HPA axis dysfunction in affected women.
• Nutrition: Choosing the right foods, especially complex carbohydrates, can help enhance your mood during the luteal phase. These foods aid in the synthesis of serotonin in the brain, which is essential for maintaining a positive mood.
• Lifestyle: Spending time in natural sunlight or using a light box for around 30 minutes in the evening during the luteal phase can be an effective way to boost your mood and reduce PMDD symptoms. Light therapy has demonstrated its effectiveness in various mental health conditions, including PMDD.

Remember, these approaches offer scientifically grounded methods to manage PMDD, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

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