1. Take the PMDD Quiz!
2. A Visual Guide to PMS Slideshow

Medical Author:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

View Full Profile

Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

View Full Profile

In this Article

• What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?
• What causes PMDD?
• What are the symptoms of PMDD?
• When should I call a doctor about PMDD?
• How is PMDD diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for PMDD?
• What are the complications of PMDD?
• Can PMDD be prevented?
• What is the outlook for PMDD?
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) At A Glance
• Take the PMDD Quiz!
• A Visual Guide to PMS Slideshow
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) FAQs
• Patient Comments: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) - Symptoms
• Find a local Obstetrician-Gynecologist in your town
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Index

Symptoms of PMS and PMDD can be similar but are more intense and debilitating in PMDD. The symptoms of PMDD also may vary among affected women. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms include:

• fatigue,
  
  
• mood changes,
  
  
• abdominal bloating,
  
  
• breast tenderness,
  
  
• headache,
  
  
• irritability,
  
  
• depression,
  
  
• increased appetite,
  
  
• acne,
  
  
• oversensitivity to environmental stimuli,
  
  
• hot flashes,
  
  
• heart palpitations,
  
  
• easy crying,
  
  
• difficulty concentrating,
  
  
• dizziness,
  
  
• forgetfulness, and
  
  
• gastrointestinal (stomach, bowel) upset.

The symptoms of PMDD are related to the menstrual cycle, typically occurring in the second half (luteal phase) of the cycle, and resolving within the first few days after the menstrual period has begun.

It is appropriate to seek medical care for troubling physical or emotional symptoms related to the menstrual cycle.

It is important to note that the depressive symptoms of PMDD may be associated with thoughts of suicide and suicidal behavior. This is a medical emergency for which health care should be accessed immediately.