What is PMDD?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a cyclical pattern of mood and physical symptoms that usually occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and improve within a few days of bleeding.

PMDD can affect women, trans, non-binary, and intersex people who menstruate.

What PMDD might feel like

  • Intense mood shifts such as sadness, irritability, rage, or anxiety

  • Cognitive load such as brain fog and decision fatigue

  • Physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and sleep changes

  • Symptoms show up before bleeding and then ease shortly after it begins.

How PMDD differs from PMS and PME

  • PMDD vs PMS: PMDD symptoms are more severe and impair daily life

  • PMDD vs PME: PME is when another condition worsens premenstrually. PMDD does not require an existing diagnosis.

  • Timing matters: symptoms occur in the late luteal phase and ease after onset of bleeding
    Read more: PMDD vs PMS vs PME

How diagnosis works

Diagnosis is clinical, based on daily symptom tracking over at least two cycles

  1. A clinician reviews patterns, timing, and impairment

  2. Lab tests are not used to diagnose PMDD, though they may rule out other issues
    Try this: Download our free Daily Tracker and bring it to your appointmentE

First steps to take today

Start daily tracking for two full cycles

  1. Create a simple plan for tough days such as gentle routines, sleep support, and hydration

  2. Share a one-page overview with a trusted person so they know how to help
    Tool: Safety Plan Template

When to seek urgent support

If you ever feel unsafe or at risk of harming yourself or someone else, seek emergency help in your country right away. You deserve care and you are not a burden.
See: Global crisis and support resources

FAQs

Can you have PMDD without physical symptoms?

Yes. Many people experience mostly mood and cognitive symptoms. Tracking helps you and your clinician see the full picture.

Does PMDD go away after menopause?

Symptoms typically resolve after menopause. Patterns can shift during perimenopause.

Can trans men and non-binary people have PMDD?

Yes. PMDD can affect anyone who menstruates, including trans men and non-binary people. Language on this site reflects that reality.