The 11 Traits of PMDD [vs Depression] | MedCircle x Dr Ramani

[@MedCircle]

- *Get our FREE video series on depression here: **bit.ly/3kSEQ6G* -

[@kitchen101introductiontoth8]

Can I be having major depressive disorder AND pmdd together? I'm asking this because I do have a depression running in the background but the depressive symptoms gets worse and worst during my periods, so much so that they interfere with my life and work. What do you have to say about this?

[@larrycolin1227]

i guess it's kinda off topic but do anyone know of a good place to watch newly released series online ?

[@finleycorbin8596]

@Larry Colin Flixportal =)

[@larrycolin1227]

@Finley Corbin thank you, I went there and it seems to work :) I really appreciate it!

[@finleycorbin8596]

@Larry Colin No problem xD

[@Ckae19]

the craziest part is i feel a complete switch of feeling normal again as soon as bleed or i’m done my period. It’s literally like a clarity feeling. which leads to another problem where i feel guilt, regret of my previous actions during pre-menstrual days. like saying things that push my love ones away. I have indeed lost some friends the day before my period.

[@theamandalynn3913]

Yes! Same. As soon as I bleed it’s like I’m released from the craziness that I feel. This has been absolutely debilitating for my life.

[@captainswan3079]

I'm sorry . Me too .

[@bradclarkfilm6791]

My wife same way

[@msmiami9791]

Me too but I always apologize and tell them it was the PMDD, not me! Ive even created merch like this hahahahaha

[@devina5961]

I feel the same way

[@CaitFalconer]

Before I found out PMDD existed, I was trying to find out if there was a form of Bipolar or BPD that only lasted 1-2 weeks. That's how severe it is.

[@courtneyk0]

SAME

[@Mtz2604]

Same here. I have 2 depressive disorders, BPD, disorganized thinking pattern and some PTSD. The cherry on top is PMDD.

[@BoyMama87]

SAME! I told my husband, "I don't think I have Bipolar but I really feel like it sometimes." So glad there is a name for this now!!

[@lilylennox1920]

Have you found anything that helps? Any meds or birth control? I see a doctor on the 10th bc I think I have pmdd.

[@abbieamavi]

I also thought I was Bipolar before finding out what PMDD was!! I finally realized bc I would only feel crazy roughly once a month, so I got curious and googled then found PMDD lmao

[@karishi11]

This may sound ridiculous, but my PMDD sets me so far back in my spiritual and self improvement journey. I feel I have to start from scratch every month after all the damage I do in those 2 weeks

[@bl1ss544]

Hi, im wondering, do the PMDD symptoms (or whatever they are referred to as) go away as soon as you begin to bleed? I’m trying to figure out if I’m depressed or if it’s just my period. I think it’s the first, but I still feel the need to clarify.

[@karishi11]

@@bl1ss544 they do go away yes. But for a few days after I feel a lot of guilt. So it takes about 2 days post bleeding to get out of it. Don't worry you aren't alone.

[@heatherariza8463]

Doesn't sound ridiculous at all I relate

[@curlywurly1071]

Just curious, are you a earth sign?

[@karishi11]

@@curlywurly1071 nope. Air sign. Why?

[@soulywomen]

It took me a long time to associate these moods with my period. I would get SO deep down depressed and even have severe suicidal ideation. Now I know to check where I am in my cycle and give myself a break and rest.

[@ceemay3981]

I completely relate to this. It took such a long time to work out why I felt genuinely suicidal every few weeks. For me it is a feeling of sheer hopelessness and take everything critically.

[@soulywomen]

@@ceemay3981 YES!!! So much yes!! It really sends me to the depths of despair and I always have to take a minute before I just fully give up and ask myself what's happening in and around me. I deal with depression regardless and my cycle is NO help! Xo

[@sarakjeldsen769]

Same. I thought I was bipolar, but now I know. Couldn't figure out why I'd feel so manic and suicidal. It's empowering to know what the cause is so that you can manage it better.

[@ceemay3981]

@@soulywomen i am right in the depths of this week. Knowing what it is helps only slightly. I am on the verge of tears at everhthing. It effects everything. Like genuinely close to resigning my job, I have notbing to offer my children because I feel like I am dying. And it will pass in a day or 2. I am already on medication as well. I think I just need to speak more about it to help people understand

[@ceemay3981]

@@sarakjeldsen769 i was reading yesterday and it has similarities to bipolar the way we swing into severe depression and then I suppose our bouncing back to normal is such a contrast (my heart goes out to anyone with biploar because it would be even harder)

[@KarmaKattt]

This is what I have. It drives me nuts because it happens every month. I turn into a completely different person. It’s like my battery just dies I have no energy and I get severe depression and muscle tension. It’s like everything goes black. The change can be swift and scary. I literally feel the energy being drained out of me. It’s like someone pulled the plug. I go from normal happy person to suicidal. I keep away from people around this time because I’m simply not myself. It’s embarrassing and I don’t want others to think I’m like this all the time, so I just keep to myself. People just don’t understand. It makes it easier if I don’t have to explain my depressive behaviour. I’ve had this for over 20 years. Because it’s been happening so long now I’m aware it’s my period but when all the emotions hit it’s extremely hard to think logically. I work for myself now which is great, but before when I had a boss and a job life was extremely complicated. It’s changed the way I work. I now will work 3 weeks straight and then have one week off when the symptoms hit. I find this works best for me. It would be great if more people knew about this. It would be great if I could just say ‘I have PMDD’ and they’d understand.

[@strayingmantis6555]

Your reply speaks to my soul.

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

I can relate 💯

[@VictoriaWoolfrey]

This description is very accurate. ❤️

[@ysyvon]

I deal with it too. My naturopath saved my life. I know everyone reacts to everything differently but don’t give up hope 🙏🏼

[@KarmaKattt]

@@ysyvon 🙏 thanks I’m trying some new herbal supplements.

[@msmiami9791]

My PMDD symptoms sometimes start 2 weeks before my period 😩

[@missari05]

Same. Then if feels like it bleeds into the entire month or haunts me until the next cycle. Being pregnant now it never goes away. What an F’ing nightmare. No one understands.

[@BFNLEO]

Yes me too! I’ve actually found by using a tracking app mine correlates with ovulation. It fucking sucks! Basically every other week I’m taken out, mentally, then physically with period.

[@Jana-ho9mu]

@@BFNLEO Same, I can actually predict my period better than the app thanks to being aware of my mood swings. I know I've ovulated when I start feeling that crippling emptiness

[@kristenvonfoxx4042]

Mine too and go for the first half of my period. Big hugs

[@shreyakhanal953]

My periods days were always normal but this time I'm feeling nauseous and many more.. can we suddenly develop pmdd?

[@AliVanSickle]

A week-2 weeks before my period, I feel very suicidal. I feel like a burden, I hate life/myself. It's caused a lot of fights and issues with personal relationships. I often times want to run away, or leave my relationship all together. I binge eat/crave lots of salt and sugar. I feel more sensitive to rejection and very irritable. My back and breast hurt tremendously. It's miserable.

[@PinkShimmer74]

I hope you are doing better today. I pray God would completely heal you of this viscious cycle

[@keimaye]

This is exactly the same for me - you're not alone ❤ So difficult to go through every month

[@Maetaaaaaa]

I needed to see this comment ! Everything I’ve watched/read says PMDD symptoms are just a few days before our periods… mine can be two weeks before my period so it made me feel like I was so alone and it HAD to be something else. Thank you x

[@AliVanSickle]

@@Maetaaaaaa Absolutely!! It’s something I still deal with! Even though I have noticed that when the weather is really nice, it helps lessen the symptoms!

[@chriscanada3809]

@@AliVanSickle I have all the same systems as you and I share your feelings.

[@3amab606]

I wish she would’ve touched on rejection sensitivity and feeling out of love or unloved in relationships. Both are a huge part of my PMDD and I know it’s a big issue for countless other women who suffer as well.

[@Aliciae411]

Very true. I’m not in a relationship but living with family and a minor “rejection” like not wanting to watch tv with me like we planned will send me into a spiral 😂 crying hysterically that they don’t want to spend time with me thinking that I’m totally unwanted

[@MeatloafTheCat-]

Same here

[@Rushdia-di5by]

Hi! I'm going through the same problem im extremely emotional these days and i feel like I don't truly love my partner and just love the feeling of someone being there for me, but another time i cry when i miss him, but i feel like that too. Is that normal? Do i really not feel the same anymore for him or is it just pmdd?

[@biyashasarkhel787]

Hey! I've been feeling the same way. It's way too painful. Sometimes I feel I will cheat on my partner but in any situation I won't. I feel so unloved. It's horrifying

[@Daniellehoward-xq5jr]

I myself suffer from the same problems. Undiagnosed of course. I feel like I am going crazy. 😢

[@rhiannona9]

I’ve never felt such profound and all-encompassing emotional pain than I have with PMDD. It’s gotten better the past couple years but when I first realized I had it, it would literally make cry for hours over things that normally wouldn’t bother me. It made me feel completely hopeless about my life for 7-10 days out of the month. If you’re going through this too my heart goes out to you! It finally started to get better when I started sleeping more, taking medication and certain supplements and therapy.

[@rhiannona9]

@@rebecca8482 it’s called Go with the Flow by happy healthy hippie. It helped me so much! Made my symptoms much more mild.

[@rhiannona9]

@@rebecca8482 also you get a discount if you use the code "PMDDrelief"

[@rhiannona9]

@@rebecca8482 I hope it works for you!

[@missari05]

It’s an absolute nightmare and now that I’m pregnant it’s one loooong emotional PMDD battle for the last 5 months. It actually got worse. I wouldn’t wish this on my enemy.

[@rhiannona9]

@@missari05 Wow..I am so, so sorry to hear that it's gotten worse during your pregnancy :( I really do hope it improves for you soon and I'm sending you positive thoughts. You're right..I wouldn't wish this kind of pain on anyone.

[@oddds]

PMDD can actually last longer than a week. Just saying.

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

Absolutely

[@patchu6425]

I actually have a pmdd day during my ovulation week too.

[@ceniasandoz5556]

I get it exactly 10 days before my period every month without fail, it’s like a switch.

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

@@ceniasandoz5556 its 7-14 for me. Every second month it seems to be worse 🤦‍♀️

[@alyshaphillips9195]

Every second month is worse for me too 😞

[@dawnkez4655]

I have pmdd, and I also get seasonal depression. I can feel a difference. There is a huge increase in invasive thoughts that trigger my anxiety. I also feel myself "snowballing", someone will do something wrong and all of the sudden, everything that person has ever done wrong pops up in my head and I can't help but rant. I definitely isolate myself so I don't hurt those I love emotionally.

[@macmusing]

I relate to this!

[@macmusing]

I definitely want to isolate

[@SirenASMR_]

Yup I isolate because the person I feel is not trustworthy any longer . Which is true . I never had pmdd until I started dating this toxic individual. I dumped him so I think soon I might heal from this

[@fluutur4430]

i do that but i can’t isolate myself because i can’t control my outbursts and it ruins my relationships i can’t do it anymore i can’t handle it

[@pritil21]

​@@fluutur4430I understand, it's happening with me too😢

[@RaniaA75]

I stay in bed, unless I absolutely need to do something, I have all these ideas of past regrets and what ifs, I snap at people if they do anything remotely irritating, I forget things, I leave tasks unfinished... past deadlines... all disappear within two weeks... only to come again after two weeks.... tranquillisers help...

[@ebonyrivers8505]

Same for me as well

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

Literally the same for me

[@LemansSunset350]

Same ☹️

[@asenpongen9203]

In addition to many other symptoms I too go through whatever you have shared ❤️❤️. It breaks my heart at the same so happy that I am coming across so many relatable comments here - that I am not alone in this fight. Thank you for sharing 😭❤️

[@internetbren]

Thank you so much for sharing. Dealing with all of those things literally right now

[@normagallegos7018]

YOU ARE ALL VALID IN YOUR PAIN AND MENTAL HEALTH! WE DESERVE BETTER!

[@Stardust-uc4lr]

Ameen to this!!❤

[@rdwrer1331]

SERIOUSLY

[@ninarose3801]

men are so unbelievably lucky , had it really bad this month , I literally felt like I looked like an alien , felt so hopeless , broke out like crazy , sleeping all over the place , severely anxious like shaking anxious when out around people . This is so debilitating and we are expected to go to work and go by our daily lives whilst having this ! ?

[@ashleyriosrizo]

I get really weird feelings to. You mentioned looking like an alien. Has it gotten better?

[@doriscandy3396]

My anxiety goes to the roof before my menses I can't think straight n get brain fog.I shake and feel cold with muscle aches.I am on anti anxiety meds...

[@ashleyriosrizo]

@@doriscandy3396 Have you heard of this new supplement? It's called OXALOACETATE. It's very promising you should look into. It's natural as well.

[@MD-ok2oo]

If it makes you feel better they’re not taught to regulate their emotions and that’s why world wide more men kill themselves than women.

[@goofygothalien618]

THANK YOU.

[@monifamarie]

PMDD is far more complicated than just an emotional disorder. I wish this piece would've touched on how physically debilitating it can be.

[@NontobekoN-N]

You know. I get tired and have cramps

[@sarakjeldsen769]

It's been so empowering to know that the extreme depression I had was caused by this. It was my therapist who pointed it out. I'd be so high and energetic for 2 weeks then exhausted, anxious, irritable, depressed, and suicidal soon after. Knowing what the cause is makes it way easier to manage.

[@godislove7500]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIC7Y5idZtOZd9U

[@greencookie2288]

Yeah .help.links? Anything help help my gp is useless. Please and thank you

[@No_675]

I’m going through the symptoms right now and I feel like crying while watching this video

[@monalisamafuka9058]

I cried all day yesterday and often mistake it with actually being depressed😔.... I feel weak but keep telling myself I'm lazy and now am sad because I don't like being lazy and I was meant to resume work yesterday however by the end of the day I have myself a 1month leave.... I have a week's worth of emotions just yesterday

[@mym0onlight293]

Removing caffeine, gluten, dairy and processed sugar have improved my symptoms

[@DeathAngleZoe]

I really need to do this, too. Do you find that excersize helps too?

[@AD-yd9dk]

Thank you for the tips!

[@ineuifity]

@@DeathAngleZoe yes and no, but overall yes. Of course exercise (high intensity aerobic) helps release endorphins, improves blood circulation which flushes toxics and distributes nutrients. But for me, I found that it reduced my cortisol levels, and made my cycles very regular, forcing me to experience my symptoms more frequently and at expected intervals. Obviously, I'm not suggesting to have a stressed out life, but it does help push the onset of symptoms down the line. I think what will help most that not a lot of people mention, is to really work hard to improve your sleep quality.

[@covertperspective]

I just cut all of these out, but then a few days before my period, I had such intense cravings that I caved and binged on cheese and gluten. I could immediately feel the effects and how it changes my mood. Now that my period has started all cravings have gone away and I’m just wanting to feel healthy again lol

[@tiapie9213]

All the fun stuff 😢

[@joseedubosq105]

YESSSS, please make a series on PMDD. 5-8% of women suffer from this and there is very little resources or even treatments available to release these women.

[@priscillaeyles3301]

Yes concur about doing a series. This has been so useful thank you @Medcircle and Dr. Ramani for explaining the traits and differences to PMS and depression so clearly. It has been very validating to hear that I'm not alone in feeling so angry, emotional and socially withdrawn at that time of my cycle. Just today and last few days have been feeling crap about arguing with partner and being so difficult. I'm now pretty sure I have PMDD and it has confirmed to me that I need to change contraception back again to pills. As currently have an implant and symptoms get terrible and more unbearable the closer the implant is to expiring. So much so that I can't work or do anything. So many more AFAB/women need to know about this diagnosis, it really could save so many relationships and jobs. Also please can you talk about the likelihood of co-occurance/co-morbidity with neurodivergent conditions such as Autism and ADHD? As I know for many in the ND community it is pretty common to have PMDD and it definitely effects ADHD medication efficiency to a massive degree. But hardly any research in this area, because neurodivergent research is of course majorly centered around men and male behaviour. Reallly high time that psychiatry stopped being so illogically compartmentalised too. It's a real pet peeve of mine, makes no sense! 😒😣 More psychiatrists really need to be trained to understand how hormones/PMDD affect things like medication and moods etc. As there is a whole load of AFAB/women feeling utterly desperate and suicidal, and no idea why their current treatment and self-care regimes no longer works.

[@Unconditionalwholeness]

It’s actually more like 10%

[@Яблочный0]

The % is probably way higher

[@VictoriaWoolfrey]

This is a good start! I feel like the intensity of PMDD was not captured. Some cycles can be worse than others, and sometimes it can be a full mental health crisis with suicidal ideation. For those who have depression and PMDD, certain antidepressants work well with PMDD. You can up your dosage 10 days before your menstrual cycle. This can make a huge difference. There are some psychiatrists who specialize in this.

[@cs5981]

it is such a severe mental health illness and such little knowledge or even awareness is around.

[@Lowdermoomoo]

I have an amazing APRN who is very knowledgeable of my ADHD and PMDD and how they aggravate each other some days of the month I can skip my afternoon adderall dose, and two days before and after my period starts, I have to double up, because I start getting overstimulated, irritable and my meds just don’t work as well, so doubling up these 4 days of the month really helps. It’s still there but it manageable. Still get uncomfy in my own skin but that’s better than wanting to desert my family in the middle of the night 🙃

[@OE2023]

More people need to know about this when I realised I had it, it was an absolute game changer for realising what was going on.

[@sarakjeldsen769]

So true. PMS can actually be pretty serious when it's PMDD.

[@beebeeramone4641]

I've known i had this for awhile and got officially diagnosed last week. How did you remedy your pmdd??

[@OE2023]

@@beebeeramone4641 taking a good quality 5-HTP helped me but if it gets worse the natural progression would be anti depressants.

[@beebeeramone4641]

@@OE2023 do you have any side affects with taking that?

[@teresitaperegrina3741]

@Bee Bee Ramone I just found out about this supplement specifically created for Pmdd called Jubilance. I just tried it out yesterday and hoping it works. But people have been raving about it. I’ve seen other people recommend Lions Mane mushroom supplements and a product called Go With The Flow by Happy Healthy Hippie

[@aprilmichellerose3687]

I’m 41 and I already have depression, anxiety and panic attacks. For the last few years I’ve noticed about 2 weeks before my cycle my breasts hurt so bad that I want to cut them off, menstrual cramps so bad I’m laid up in bed, crying over everything, bloating, mania, suicidal thoughts homicidal thoughts of hurting my pos baby dad, headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, body aches. I desperately need help, I can’t live like this anymore. I would love to get a hysterectomy. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you ladies who have to deal with PMDD-it’s living hell!

[@asenpongen9203]

April, ty for your sharing. We all know that we are not alone in this - and as hard as it is, let's go into the battle and try our best to come out victorious - even saying victorious seems like a joke to me when I am having one right now. But I keep telling myself - I am not letting this kill me 😭😭. So much love your way.

[@amypola5903]

Get off dairy and soy

[@orangetrees167]

Thank you for sharing your story. You’re not crazy and there are so many other people out there who have shared your experiences. I hope we find the relief we deserve someday soon.

[@CaitFalconer]

Thanks for phrasing it that way- I think people easily discredit PMDD bc the symptom descriptions don't capture the true severity. "Breast tenderness? No, I legit want to cut my tits off they hurt so much. Mood swings? No, I went into a 5hr crying/rage/suicidal ideation spiral that ended with my bf hiding all the sharp objects and calling a suicide hotline. Tiredness? No, I fell asleep as soon as I got home from work, was barely able to get up after sleeping 12hrs, and am noticeably moving slowly bc I'm utterly exhausted."

[@ashleyriosrizo]

@@amypola5903 does that really make a difference?

[@jhvuvnik65s24]

I dated a woman that had this. It was like living with someone that was bi-polar in regards to how big the mood swings would get. She would be completely normal most of the time, but she would go bonkers for about a week out of the month. It was very difficult not take her seriously when she was having issues with it, but if you did, it would validate the things going on in her head at that moment, which where on the verge of paranoid delusions. Something as simple as forgetting to unload the dishwasher could send her into a rage and be viewed as a personal attack on her or intentional selfish behavior to hurt her. It was wild. She would always level out a few days after her period would start, and she'd be extremely embarrassed and apologetic for her behavior. She used to say that she felt 100% righteous in the moment, and that it fooled her every time in regards to distorting her reality.

[@foxpuddles]

Very accurate. I’ve been accused of “pretending” but it’s no joke. I HATE everything to an extreme that is dangerous. I worry because I get urges to slam my card with everyone in it against a brick wall. Just to escape a conversation as simple as “are you hungry”. I did it once too. Thank god I was the only one in the car and I survived.

[@unscriptedinteration]

I’m like this, feel ashamed every time

[@Stardust-uc4lr]

Yeah at the moment you are in it you feel right after that you start realizing ok.. what did i just do.

[@Lowdermoomoo]

Antidepressants help for me as well as increasing my adhd meds two days before and two days after I start. It’s less intense and manageable, but it’s still there. Stuff that doesnt usually get to me, gets to me. Little issues I have become bigger. Now I’m aware and can keep it in my head and have to try and tell myself it’s just my period because it feels so freaking real. I still feel embarrassed I had those thoughts even if I didn’t act on them and I can’t help it.

[@daniellewhite7717]

@@Lowdermoomoodo you take antidepressants every day or did they prescribe intermittently before period?

[@strayingmantis6555]

I remember, about 10 years ago in my early 20's, I realized that I had a dangerous "pattern". I didn't know what it meant, or what it was, but after starting to track my period, I realized this pattern always started around 2 weeks before my period. It was hard to control my emotional impulses, and it was affecting almost every area of my life. There were times I could barely even walk when my period came-- which decided whether I would be absent from class or work, while impacting my work life & grades negatively. I've had to leave a longtime worksite due to a PMDD hell week moment I was unable to control--as it was a toxic work environment. It's been such a long journey to learn to prepare myself, my body, my mind, for when my period is coming, as I have paid the price for being unaware of caring for myself during PMDD hell week. These days, as soon as I notice "the signs" I start to do small guided meditations, eat well, and continue to take supplements. I just think of the preparation as a form of self love keeping me grounded and positive minded.

[@carolynlopez4048]

Yup

[@aryuatwin3950]

My husband's sister had Endo and Pmdd. She had her cycles halted using hormones to preserve her fertility.

[@bomgodd]

It wasn't a toxic work environment. You made them hate you.

[@hannahbrawley1857]

Mine align with ovulation almost perfectly. I become crippled with anxiety, depression, and intense irritability.

[@caramelali8132]

@@bomgodd be careful with what you say, that’s a weird comment you made.

[@deannaauchampach1830]

Found out I had this about 6 years ago. Rage, severe anxiety, suicidal thoughts, migraines, etc. Found Vitex and take it every day. Not one symptom of PMDD except maybe slight anxiety and irritability.

[@nataliapiechowiak9442]

What’s Vitex? Is it a supplement?

[@amypola5903]

Yes!! Im going vegan to fix this. I need to add vitex back in. But not everyone deals well with it, so start low and slow. Its a very gentle herb also known as chasteberry. I have nightmares if I take it at night. Morning only.

[@biancapomponio4099]

I have pmdd and adenomyosis. Vitex is good for pmdd and the worst thing for adenomyosis. I’m having my total hysterectomy in a month so fingers crossed life gets better then!

[@tessietrue7485]

@@biancapomponio4099 how are you doing after your hysterectomy? Are you still experiencing symptoms?

[@biancapomponio4099]

@@tessietrue7485 I didn’t end up having one as I was on a pill that helped my pmdd until I ended up having heart issues. Last year was horrendous, now I think I’m in perimenopause and have stopped being vegan after 11yrs and a lot of my issues have gotten better. Along with Pilates and yoga and Zumba classes and a 10kg weight loss so far since December. Feeling healthier. My adenomyosis is still hard to deal with but I have to say this year things are on the way up. Thanks goodness!!!!!!!!

[@Okinagrow]

Hello! Woman with diagnosed by a psychiatrist with severe PMDD here... I'm pretty sure that the leading theory currently regarding the etiology of PMDD points more towards a abnormal reaction of the brain to otherwise hormone changes that happen with each menstrual cycle, not an actual hormonal imbalance! This abnormal brain response can cause serotonin deficiency, which in turn affects mood... :)

[@soniachambers6460]

Yes, because blood work is normal for heaps of people

[@agnea9460]

@@soniachambers6460 hormones don't always show up in blood. Urine samples should be tested too.

[@jlynnmenzel]

I would think this could be quite valid without looking up and supportive studies. I’ve had my brain scanned last year and they found a very hyperactive hypothalamus which controls the signaling to cells, hormones and neurotransmitters, and a moderately overactive basal ganglia, which is a big center for mood control. When I balance my dopamine and serotonin regularly I have much less depressive feelings before my period arrives. It’s such a pronounced shift that the minute I feel better I know to go check to see if my period is starting. I do believe PMDD is more prevalent in women suffering from PTSD or CPTSD. Although that is a pretty broad statement since I think a lot of people these days in general could meet the criteria for CPTSD if they went to get analyzed.

[@ashleyriosrizo]

@@jlynnmenzel How did you balance your hormones?

[@ineuifity]

@@ashleyriosrizo at a rudimentary level, the highs where your feel incredible rage can be somewhat dealt with by high intensity aerobic exercise. I personally found joining a Muay Thai class helpful. Helped me release the rage, for one, also increased my blood flow helping flush out toxics and kept the nutrients moving throughout the system. As well, it temporarily boosts testosterone levels, which helped me feel more grounded. Note that the body always wants to achieve equilibrium so the estrogen will rise steadily alongside with higher testosterone and catch up in a few hours, but when symptoms are really bad, those few hours of steady peace were bliss. I heard some people push themselves to exercise even when they're low and incredibly fatigued. Rather than teaching the body to accept lethargy, you force the body to move which can increase endorphins and give it additional stimulus to process to distract resources away from fueling the mood chemicals. I personally find this incredibly difficult. I give into my fatigue and accept that my house will be a mess that week. I do find that increasing exercise, makes my body starve, and I need to be even more conscious about my nutrition, especially boosting my protein. Otherwise, it feels like my body eats me alive and I completely shut down to what feels like a coma nap ranging anywhere between 3-12 hours.

[@user-hj5ch9ge4p]

PMDD is dangerously underrepresented and I am so grateful for this video

[@womaninthewave]

I think I’ve finally figured out what’s wrong with me. For 3-5 days before my period I feel extremely fatigued, irritable, anxious, hopeless, alone, and even suicidal. I cry over the smallest things incessantly. Then once my period comes I feel fine, like a weight has been lifted. I was on birth control for 7 years. It’s been a year off of it and that’s about when these symptoms started

[@ingridcolin4153]

I’m currently doing research at 2 am because I can’t sleep and had a very negative emotion filled day and I know my period is coming. Everything discussed was to a T. I impulsively crave human connection when I’m just sinking lower and lower in a funk before my cycle. ( and this could be up to 2 weeks before). I’m in my early 20s and I definitely see it affecting my relationship. I think of every negative emotion ever felt and just crack. But it will come in episodes. I am so grateful to have come across this comment section and see I’m not alone as well a for the researchers doing the work and bringing out more treatment plans. This for sure gives me hope 🥺.

[@brandyhunter932]

You’re definitely not alone..😞😔

[@ramonarassi]

Diet and sport and prayyyyyyyyyyyyy✝️

[@sweet_t811]

I just considered hospitalizing myself bc of PMDD. It really is debilitating, I cant overstate that. I'm so happy MedCircle is talking about this! More awareness needs to be brought to PMDD

[@SirenASMR_]

Same

[@NaeK188]

I’ve just found this out today after I considered hospitalising myself due to suicidal ideation. It’s debilitating. I don’t want to unalive myself so I feel like my emotions are running against everything I know to be true and real.

[@wingberry123]

I get so bloated, acne, irritability, depression, anxiety and obsessive thoughts. I could cry easily. I don't feel love towards my partner. I live with constant anxiety, but it gets worse two weeks before my period. The worst part is my period is always late and I experience these symptoms longer.

[@leonardascorpius5304]

Back in the day, I had PMDD and debilitating periods most of my life. Had I known more about preventive measures like acupuncture, herbs, appropriate dietary adjustments, yoga, meditation practice, AND checking my hormonal levels by blood work regularly, I probably would've done way better at school and workplaces!! Bottom line, extreme stress and living in environments wrought with horrible people or partners seem to make everything worse. When I'm doing well and feeling balanced, my symptoms were moderate to low. Therapy and learning to communicate your feelings and thoughts to others before a PMDD attack are keys to stabilizing your mind and body.

[@achillthatbends]

This this this this👍

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

Yeah I noticed that stress aggravates my symptoms. I've read/heard that PMDD is theorized to be a post traumatic stress response in that the body is more sensitive to stress including hormonal changes. Idk how accurate that is but for me it's very true. I grew up under consistent immense stress.

[@paigenich2335]

Please, I want to know what herbs will help????

[@asenpongen9203]

Ty for sharing. Very informative and all facts ❤️❤️

[@leonardascorpius5304]

@@paigenich2335 I would check with your local, highest-reviewed acupuncturist and Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT)/Integrative Healing practitioner. Follow their protocol but insist on bloodwork to check all of your hormone levels and thyroid functions first. Make a list of your monthly symptoms and stressful life situations that may be contributing to your PMDD/severe PMS. A good doctor would suggest dietary guidelines (like avoiding alcohol, excessive caffeine, cold drinks, and spicy food for starters) and herbal supplements. Hope this helps you. 🙏🏽

[@lizhenson4563]

I'm so grateful to have come across this today. I noticed at least a day or two before my period I have to call out of work because I feel so extremely depressed and anxious to the point of wanting to self harm or punish myself. I cut literally every one I know off completely and need like isolation from the world lol. Today is one of those days and it's nice to know I'm not alone.

[@ysyvon]

So happy y’all are talking about this. I deal with PMDD. I know not everything works for everyone but my naturopath saved my life, got me on a specific supplement and hormonal regiment, life is SO MUCH BETTER now, it’s a compete 180

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

Can I ask which Supplement is working best for you personally?

[@ysyvon]

@@valentinapoppyautumn6303 hey Wendy, it’s really sooo specific to the person and all of my supplements are via Dr. prescription but the one that does help the most is a natural progesterone cream, my Dr name is Dr. Kam Tecaya, she’s here in AZ but does telemedicine and she’s absolutely the best, as she’s also dealt with PMDD. Hope this helps 💕

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

@@ysyvon Thank you 🙏❤️

[@amypola5903]

@@ysyvon I have progesterone cream but tend to feel some growths I have hurt when I use it. Progesterone grows stuff, like babies, and what not, so its a catch 22. Trying to go more dietary with it, both progesterone boosting and cleansing.

[@johannahandersen8517]

It's so hard to tell this is going on when you already have other mood disorders. My cycle had caused me nothing but problems since it started, my depression started at the same time. Hopefully medicine only advances further and understanding of this disorder.

[@godislove7500]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIC7Y5idZtOZd9U

[@apsmith4482]

I was initially diagnosed with manic depression / bipolar from multiple doctors before learning about PMDD. It’s been a crazy journey …

[@cs5981]

It's truly a hell on earth living with this disorder. It is life and relationship altering. EVERY month for a week to feel chronically anxious, anger, severe depression, need for complete isolation, not wanting to be around anyone let alone your family. Then you are the miserable, emotional, crazy and unhappy lunatic. It's awful and i try and try and try and try not to be like this. This is not me but it is.....

[@radicallytubular]

My husband obviously lives with my symptoms alongside myself, but I sent him this video so he could see the clinical side of this. He is a constant support, so I feel it's important to share.

[@mariamariafujoshiinurarea2524]

i turn very suicidal and depressed during the days before my period and when i told my mom about this disorder she laughed at my face lol

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

That's terrible, I'm sorry that happened. My mother was also very invalidating as well. She insisted that my dysmenorrhea was appendicitis lol (even tho I had explained it to her it wasn't a million times) and that I was just being over dramatic and lazy if it wasn't appendicitis. She said she could get up and go dancing when she had her period when she was younger... good for you? I'm not you, lady lol. Also, she would always say that I was always so "nasty" and "moody" before my period, in a condescending tone. Never once thought to take me to a GYN tho lol 🙃

[@sadliminals3429]

mine also told me “that’s just pms and everyone has it” you’re not alone! ❤️❤️

[@gabriellecarawilletts6771]

I’m sorry please ignore her. I suffer with this too and it’s horrendous

[@rhiannona9]

I'm so sorry she treated you like that! I also feel like people were very dismissive about it saying "oh it's just PMS, etc." it's so hurtful. The suicidal thoughts I had were the scariest part of PMDD for me.

[@BaLa-hn1uz]

Chinese doctors cure this. xxx ive been on herbs for 7 months and most symptoms have gone.

[@alexish8183]

I went through a period where I would get intense suicidal feelings about a week before my period. When my period started they’d go away. Thankfully after about 8 months it stopped.

[@dudebromisterjake]

Thank you for making this. My PMDD is so bad that I have suicidal ideations, I think about ending my marriage, I just can't be around people because I might say or do something I deeply regret. My BFF with bipolar disorder swears I am bipolar... Bipolar disorder doesn't make your breasts hurt so bad that you don't want to walk... Bipolar disorder doesn't abruptly stop as soon as you begin bleeding. I will sob uncontrollibly in the hour leading up to menstruation starting. Like clockwork. Every month. Then, as soon as the bleeding starts, I just feel sleepy and embarrassed. Stable mood for the next three weeks, then repeat.

[@ashleykathryn9038]

I just read that trauma can cause PMDD, I never struggled with this until I married a narcissist. 4.5 years later divorced and trying to get my health back. Was diagnosed with PTSD and now my therapist is saying I might have PMDD. My body and brain are so damaged now such a waste of life

[@jaynaysay1273]

I’m so sorry to hear that. You definitely aren’t a wasted life. You have purpose and God loves you. He can help you heal from these things and completely redeem your life if you’ll let Him. ❤

[@SirenASMR_]

I can fully relate . I began dating someone with server mental issues who took them out on me . Caused me to mess up my life and I ended up moving in w a narcissist parent. Trying to find a therapist who will do remote sessions who specializes in narcissistic parents and partners . Do you mind sharing your therapist name ?

[@Maetaaaaaa]

I relate to this so much… I have PTSD too and when my ‘PMDD’ symptoms come on my brain just can’t ever fucking make the distinction like am I disassociating because of my PTSD or because my periods coming (mine have been irregular my whole life so I never know what to attribute what I’m going through to until the day I bleed)… I wish this was talked about more because it’s so scary wanting to tell a doctor and have them just say oh you have bi polar or something you know. I hope you are feeling better, as I’m seeing this comment 1 year later lol 🙏🏽

[@heatherariza8463]

My PTSD and pmdd seem to go hand in hand as well. I've had PTSD since I was 13 though

[@omgimover4075]

OMG! I was in a relationship with a narcissist 6 years ago & I never had PMDD until I met him!

[@achillthatbends]

Mine starts around 10 days before my menstruation. I get severe migraines and psychologically down and out.

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

My symptoms start ten days prior to period too

[@achillthatbends]

@@valentinapoppyautumn6303 I can feel your pain. Are you on anything for it?

[@animalsarelove82]

this is me. barely get a break every month

[@valentinapoppyautumn6303]

@@achillthatbends 1tsp Lions Mane mushroom powder 3x a day

[@nicolestevenson3404]

Mine is about 10 days out too. Everyone at my house sees it before I do. My poor family 🙃

[@LittleMissSunshine721]

For the last three days, I’ve cried, and binged ate. The binge was dramatic and it really surprised/alarmed me. I didn’t know what PMDD was until I saw it in my period app.

[@heatherariza8463]

I'm disappointed I pay for the flo app and it hasn't once mentioned pmdd it seems to think this is normal and isn't helpful at all

[@AudriaWitt-Preiss]

Definitely do your research. The very first time I heard of PMDD… it explained absolutely everything. I began to track my periods and to forgive myself for needing intense self care . And the moment my period starts, I suddenly am able to smile. I know the exact day my ovulation is complete, I have a tendency to cry over absolutely nothing. And the exact day that is 3 days before my period. Because my brain becomes fuzzy and disjointed, and I sleep most of the day. Go research. Seriously it’s so relieving.

[@nicolestevenson3404]

Thank you so much for covering this topic! I have struggled with PMDD most of my life. It lasts about 10 days then I spend the next 10 days trying to fix all the hurt I caused during those days of agitation, anger, and just unstoppable emotional outbursts and seclusion after the quake. I have not been able to tolerate taking oral contraceptives as they trigger migraines. But with newer developments in medicine I am willing to try again. Anything to control the carnage that happens with PMDD, my marriage and getting back to work are so very worth it! Thank you!

[@teresitaperegrina3741]

Try Jubilance, a one ingredient supplement designed for PMDD. Or chasteberry & red maca, or all three!

[@EllenCPickle]

My narcasist in my life used to blame my cycle, then after hysterectomy blamed that...took me years to realize it had more to do with living with a narcasist...BUT YES, PHYSICALLY OUR BODIES ARE AFFECTED AND EFFECTS SO MANY THINGS..it's a delicate balance...stress on the body and the body on stress!!! Balance!!! Our bodies have rights over us as we have rights over our bodies!!!!

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

I'm so sorry you experienced this. I've experienced something kinda similar, my mother would blame my cycle too and would even track it. She would be like, "oh no wonder you've been so nasty to me the past couple of days! It's right before your period!" even tho we never got along even after I got my period lol. She would start shit then twist it and blame it on me. I'm glad she's out of my life now and I'm glad you no longer have them in your life too! I'm glad you no longer struggle with PMDD anymore as well. I hope you're doing much better! 💓

[@SirenASMR_]

@@LuvBugBlaqkHart we have the same mother . The day mine passes I think life will be easier . They are horrible and cause so much stress

[@smb879]

I have ADHD, and PMDD. It's a lovely combo, that I'm still trying to grasp. I'm searching for a specialist to help with behavioral health I cannot manage on my own. I'm currently medicated for ADHD, but we're to start antidepressants only for when my period is coming on. Only time I felt leveled was when I was pregnant.

[@lalakuma9]

I already have anxiety and recurring depression, but I feel more hopeless and sometimes more suicidal shortly before my period comes. I also get horrible fatigue and brain fogs. In high school, one time I got these symptoms while taking an exam. I passed out in the middle of that exam and got a D. Now I try to reduce the symptoms by using birth control, which makes me get less frequent periods. I don't think I deal well with hormonal changes.

[@aryuatwin3950]

I have experienced the same ❤ I walked out during maths class in tears one time. Deep depression during cycle, one or two good days mid cycle then the anxiety, mood swings and agitation builds til it all starts all over again!

[@TravelinRosy2025]

Same

[@godislove7500]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIC7Y5idZtOZd9U

[@savvy2114]

Thank you for sharing because I have the same problems right now in high-school

[@JH-vy7uy]

Mine occurs from ovulation until day one or two of period. So the entire luteal phase with a couple of lighter days within that two week frame. I won't talk about the mood symptoms because I know everyone already knows about those, but there is also inflammation symptoms, like skin dermatitis, nasal sores, irritable bowel, and acid reflux. Overstimulation to light, sound movement, so mysophonic I wear industrial ear muffs (worse in the mornings and evenings). All day mental fog, clumsiness, trouble talking or finding the right words, no focus or working memory, slip sliding thoughts and rumination, exhaustion, muscle knots, increased joint pain, slow healing or easily get UTIs and skin infections. I discovered all those physical symptoms were cyclic with two years of tracking, when before this I assumed they were unrelated. I get sleep onset insomnia the couple days before starting period, the day I start I tend to wake up in the middle of the night and can't fall back asleep. Been tracking for over two years, even verbal and motor tics I have had since a medication unmasked them in my twenties... Tend to occur wherever my hormones move, so building toward follicular, around ovulation, and begining and end of luteal yet not when the hormones are "stable" at peaks or lows. I have no idea why that is, and I wish that researchers would look at verbal and motor tic in relation to the hormone cycle. In follicular... I'm myself. No more knots and pain, I have energy, more focus, no GI issues, nasal sores heal. I'm articulate and more social. I feel more attached to people and it lasts just long enough to almost forget how bad the luteal phase was. I plan my life with the cycle now, and do a lot of prep that makes my dysfunction in pmdd less impactful (frozen meals ready, light alarm clock, ear muffs, more sleep, less complex tasks and no visits or social obligations with "deep talks" with my partner scheduled to occur in follicular when I am more myself. Taking an histamine blocker that mitigates some of the inflammation symptoms also.

[@skinney9542]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I get alot of what you mentioned also x

[@mgyummycake]

Wow wish i could do this.. but now imma try to see this too n share with doctor….ne treatments help u?

[@jessicaoberembt]

I didn’t think my nose issues could be related but yes, they are tracking too!

[@agnea9460]

Please check yourself for estrogen dominance, it might be it. Inflammation and histamine overload point to high estrogen

[@rakhichakraborty5164]

does it also cause sharp shooting pain in arms and legs?

[@tiffania3085]

It’s so reassuring to finally have a diagnosis because I truly thought I was crazy!! I’d like to know about PMDD and Endometriosis together

[@juliabentley8022]

This makes so much sense. I feel like I switch into a complete different person especially towards my long distant relationship… I literally think he is always doing something he shouldn’t be… I make up so many fictional stories up in my head… act angry, sad, overly needy, etc. and when it goes away, I am mortified at how I acted, reacted as well as felt. Then I am completely normal again. 🥺

[@macat123456789]

I can feel the switch in my brain when my PMDD starts. Then when it ends. Every cycle i can pin point when it starts and ends. But even though I know what it is it feels so real.

[@JessicaRedden-qx4jt]

Even though I can’t eee it but I can’t never control it

[@becca7632]

He reminds me of the nurses at my OBGYN office. "Isn't this just depression" I was so mad when the nurses dismissed and medically gaslit me.

[@Moon-lg7ue]

PMDD is aggravating af. I deal with a lot of mood lability. Also, my symptoms do NOT resolve with the start of my period, but not til after it. I was diagnosed very young. I can't even stand MYSELF during this time. It's definitely a feeling of dysphoria with your own emotional state.

[@ramona9460]

Omg you said this perfectly! I feel the same exact way

[@heatherariza8463]

Yeah my mood stabilizes 2 to 3 days in. My period just started and I told my bf thank God two more days til I'm not the hangry moody crazy lady 😢 He looked at me with such compassion but that's not always the case cuz let's face it it can be awfully hard to deal with the mood swings and awfully damaging to the relationship. Especially the paranoia, self harm I did (til I decided no more no matter what), yelling, fixating on things that are minor, etc

[@Rchase83]

Irritable, sad, depressed, bloated, nauseous, freezing cold, exhausted, sore, etc etc, 10 days before period. Can’t get diagnosed cause no one will hear me out.

[@Aliciae411]

I get really cold too!

[@nguyenngoc6022]

pmdd is such a curse. one minute i was healthy and happy and then boom, suicidal thoughts just take over all my body. i feel very weak and defeated. sleeping all day but still feel tired and everything suddenly becomes overwhelming for me to handle. even the tiniest problem has enough power to make me cry. these symptoms go on for almost a week and only give in when my period hits. i hate pmdd so damn much. why is my brain working that way? :(

[@toy1827]

10+ days before my period, I get most of these symptoms. I also get itchy hives all over. My skin crawls. A dermatologist treated me like I was crazy. Been dealing with this for at least 7 years. I recently discovered PMDD. I have the most severe form I have ever heard about. I will be searching for a doctor ASAP.

[@idad.5409]

Histamine outbreaks can Make you itchy. I heard about auto immune progesterone dermatitis. Maybe look into that

[@thewindoftime]

Yes 10+ days for me too.. all the best.. hope u find solutions soon

[@mzartdesigns]

@@idad.5409 You’re the first person I’ve seen on youtube post about this. I had these exactly symptoms around the time I would soon be getting my period and I didn’t have this problem until I was put on depo provera. I continued to break out in hives every cycle up to a year and a half after being off of another progesterone pill and Im just now getting over that. That’s why I’m against oral contraceptives/synthetic hormones. That’s shit is poison. Hopefully when I finally get a PMDD diagnosis, there’s alternatives to birth control because I’m not getting on that shit again.

[@Seremonii]

Depo made me an emotional nutt. Birth control raised my bp. Yoga 🧘🏿‍♀️ and green jasmine teas & chamomile tea 🍵 helps a bit too, Monika.

[@blondellbesson5831]

Stay away from dairy

[@reneecrotty6910]

The only time I do not experience many symptoms is if I cut all carbs and sugar and exercise literally every day and drink 3 to 4 litres of water for EVERY day of the whole month. Otherwise... sometimes its so intense :( Find myself going for drives, balling my eyes out feeling so alone in the world and like there is no hope for me etc etc.. :( Here is what I am doing right now to sooth myself that maybe you could try.... I have a tidy room, essential oils (100%) pure burning in my room, A cozy blanket on, a hot water bottle to help my comfort level, my little dog who just had a bath and smells lovely, watching some of these videos help me... I'm drinking a cup of tea and I'm just steering clear of people until I feel better. Just do anything in your power to keep calm, sook yourself if you have to... sometimes you need to. Go for a stroll outside if you must, go for a drive out in the countryside if you must.... anything that helps you feel at least 5% better is better than nothing. Xxxxxx All my love girls

[@Gleyi07]

Thank you 🌹

[@marylisasings]

Thank you

[@mdouglasinc]

It's 10 days before for me. Severe depression, suicidal thoughts, hopelessness.

[@Jess_Tropical_jungle]

I think people try to reach out to loved ones or friends for support but sometimes those people are going through things and may unintentionally behave in a way that sends you spiraling even further into that depressive state.

[@tracysimon7972]

I just started experiencing this as of late. I isolate, I have extreme fear of dying, crying and a list of other things.... I thought it was pretty menopause since I'm 44. I'm glad I know what it is now

[@LauraBeckerReal]

I've had this all my life, and only realized recently that this was happening due to hormonal cycles. I had irregular cycles until age 24, so that made it impossible to pick it out amidst all the chaos. I also have CPTSD, and so during the PMDD cycles, it's basically hell, with no recourse. I change into a different person, and get suicidal. The PTSD symptoms take over when I normally can handle it, thanks to a lot of therapy and lifestyle changes. But during the premenstrual cycles, there's basically nonstop flashbacks. It's taken a long time to practice clawing my way out of all the trauma stuff, but now I still experience the symptoms due to the PMDD, and I can see that helping the PMDD is even taking precedent over the CPTSD. I pretty much feel that I can't pursue my life goals of marriage and motherhood until I regulate these symptoms, because in combination with the CPTSD, the hormonal shifts just cause complete dysfunction for a week of each month. It's so demoralizing to be doing all this healing work with the CPTSD, and seeing great progress, and then just falling back into hell for a week, at no fault of my own. I try to just do as little as possible, and "rest" during that week, so that I don't regress, but it still feels like a regression when I'm finally starting to feel more secure in myself after surviving traumas, but then during the luteal phase, I can't help but physically be overpowered by the symptoms, which trigger the PTSD. Man, not many understand. Anyone who knows CPTSD, knows how alienating and painful that is to experience, it's essentially an isolating condition, and then adding the isolation of the PMDD on top of it... It's disgustingly lonely. Well, here's to finding healing for it, to any women out there experiencing this condition.

[@thikhippy]

Sending so much love. Thanks for sharing and being so vulnerable. I relate to all of it 💚

[@amandabeckler4265]

The experience you can't even put into words!! I'm with you...God help all of us!

[@LauraBeckerReal]

UPDATE: After researching PMDD treatment options, I decided to give Sertraline (Zoloft-an SSRI) a try, and I'm 6 weeks in and happy to report that it HAS HELPED by PMDD symptoms! I went through my cycle without getting suicidal, and was able to work and function at my normal level! I did have some extra negative emotion and flashbacks, but they were manageable. I know SSRIS don't work for everyone, but Sertraline has seriously helped treat the PMDD I was previously pretty hopeless about. I feel like 25% more normal and functional, and that's a lot!

[@orangetrees167]

tw ed, ideation, depression, anxiety I’ve also noticed that my body dysmorphia and severe disordered eating crop up heavily around the worst of my PMDD cycle. All I think about is how much space I take up and my brain begins to think in an ‘all or nothing’ mindset, as though I’ve always been suicidal, always needed to lose weight or always needed to become underweight, or life has always been this horrifically dark. I’m a senior in high school and there’s so much stigma surrounding this condition that I, more often than not, avoid speaking with adults or dumb down my condition for the sake of their comfort and ease of conversation. I can barely get homework done, have to push back tests, etc because at night I am barely a person and more so a tear-producing machine. Once I realized my emotional and physical symptoms were undeniably cyclical and concrete, I went to an ObGyn to discuss my further options. I’ve tried three different kinds of SSRIs to no avail, tried the most easily accessible birth control that lead to lasting side effects, been in therapy for 7 years, and told her about all of this and more. She stared at me dumbfounded and said, straight to my face, that she ‘didn’t know what to do with me.’ When does increased performative awareness lead to increased funding for PMDD research, to more options for patients, to more peace of mind for those of us suffering? This is exhausting. I’m bone tired. Life exists in the gray space between each cycle, and that seems to be waning more and more as time goes on. For those suffering, I hope we find the solutions we deserve before it’s too late.

[@shavionbates9211]

This was actually pretty good. I was thinking why is a guy doing the interview, but he asked excellent questions. Very informative.

[@tziporahyisrael7254]

Im sad that so many women suffer like I do because I wouldn’t wish this on anyone, not even a dog! However, I’m also relieved to see that PMDD is a thing because I thought there was just something wrong with ME! I felt all this time nobody else would understand. I’ve had almost no support in the hard times. I’m crying my ass off right now. Keep fighting ladies ❤️ y’all.

[@dahliajames6966]

Dogs are amazing

[@stephaniespencer7418]

Pmdd hurts but we must keep trying to find solutions. It's so hard you guys. Like a monster. 😢

[@dmtcroop40]

Message 👆🏻on Instagram

[@bl1ss544]

Hi, im wondering, do the PMDD symptoms (or whatever they are referred to as) go away as soon as you begin to bleed? I’m trying to figure out if I’m depressed or if it’s just my period. I think it’s the first, but I still feel the need to clarify.

[@MichelleRenee-ui5th]

Thank you for this 🙏 The rage that simmers constantly, the crying over EVERY DAMN THING, the worsening of already bad insomnia, the physical discomforts on top of the mental and emotional chaos. ... It's such a nightmare. So thankful these conversations are happening!

[@brunetteone4082]

I'm so glad there's a name for this. I'm just relieved. Drs have tried to diagnose me with bipolar disorder or depression, even anxiety. Nobody would listen. Thank you for this video!

[@divadolljlm]

I was diagnosed with this. It was mistaken prior for depression. Then the patterns were 10 to 7 days before my period. The best way I can describe this is pms x 10. Pms on steroids. Funny this video is playing and im right in the middle of having my pms schedule. So exhausted for no reason. I've been in my room for 2 day. When I had a boyfriend I took it out on him. He would do something as small as try and hold my hand and I would flip out. The rage inside when you get angry during this time of month I use to say no human being should ever be this angry. This goes on every month for atleast the past 18 years. The say my period comes its like the demon is released and suddenly my whole behavior does a 360. It has given me so much relief just to know that this was what it was. Having no diagnosis just makes you feel crazy. My mother had these same behaviors while growing up and there was not these diagnosis back then. After I told her I was diagnosed she already went thru menopause but it gave her some answers to why she had it so bad as well. Its like I hit rock bottom when this happens having it for almost 10 days a month is a third of my life. I do not was to socialize, go to work, do anything fun, do chores, I want to isolate. Part of isolation is to keep yourself away from others because I may lash out and the smaller things anger me. I've lived with it for so long I just roll with it and now know just go to my room and stay there till it passes is the best thing.

[@theonlytashab]

Same! I’m literally ready to kick a wall in

[@missee7951]

I know the exact day when I will start to menstruate because my emotions change so significantly up to 2 days before. I feel like a completely different person. I’m so sad, and depressed. I can’t think straight, I get my words mixed up, I feel like crying for no reason at all, my anxiety goes through the roof, and feel horrible about my life and where I’m at. I feel completely hopeless.....then 2 days later, like clockwork, once I start to menstruate it lifts like a cloud. I just have to keep reminding myself that it’s my body being kooky and it will pass. I get lots of yummy things, put a cozy blanket around me, and try to watch funny things. 💕

[@MlleJulliette]

Kyle, you said that you “might not be the best person to be doing this interview.” However, being a man and not being as familiar with menstruation as a menstruating person is, I think it makes you ideal BECAUSE you can ask all of the smaller questions that lead up to the bigger questions, causing us to get a better, more whole understanding.

[@aahsoftball]

THIS! I've always said if I break up with someone, kill someone, or do something VERY erratic, I can almost guarantee i'm on my period. Literally feels like i'm a puppet for a week and then the strings get cut once the bleeding stops.

[@testingno7199]

I thought I might have this because I get so sad/anxious/angry/irritable around my period to the point where I avoid all my friends and family as much as possible to avoid lashing out at them. But idk I’m thinking maybe it’s just pms, but as a normally very unemotional person I just don’t know how to handle normal mood swings? I definitely don’t get depression every month, I’ve had severe depression before so I know this isn’t it. No suicidal thoughts, I don’t cry at everything all week. No bloating, minimal fatigue. I’m just normally such an emotionally stable person, I think more than average, so any emotional turbulence is pretty jarring and stressful ? Idk

[@linacertified-baddie569]

I would appreciate a series. Pmdd is so neglected but so present. It’s something that has ruined my life at times, it has left me debilitated, left me in pain. I would love to talk to people and hear other peoples experience with pmdd

[@sambayanzai]

This has ruined my relationship with my family and friends. It’s a serious problem and I’m glad I’m aware of it so I can shut myself out from all contacts for a week so I don’t ruin any relationships.

[@user-ul4kh3nj3v]

i got this totally out of no where. i never dealt with it until a few months ago and now it happens every month right before my period.. i feel like a totally different person and almost like i’m disassociating. i always wondered why i didn’t get breast soreness, emotional, bloatedness etc before my periods and now i regret having that curiosity.. it really sucks.

[@bobbwest]

I am certain that my wife suffers from PMDD, based on two years of observations. When I try to gently suggest that PMDD might be responsible for her extreme mood swings, she accuses me of being “sick and disgusting@ for @tracking@ her period (which is not what I do). I am a retired critical care nurse and have a strong background in clinical research. I can’t even suggest that.it might be worthwhile to entertain the idea for purposes of ruling it out, but she strongly objects to even the slightest suggestion that her severe monthly mood swings are even remotely associated with some hormonal etiology. Her monthly “moods” have destroyed our family, yet I am guessing she’d rather have a serious personality disorder, that just so happens to have a 28 day observable, extreme severity cycle.

[@bobbwest]

How can I encourage her to get help. We are divorcing and I no longer hold out hope for enlightenment to solve our problems, however I am saddened that the answer to her behaviors may be treatable - yet she seems to prefer denial.

[@nowwhat1434]

Have you tried getting a woman she trusts to mention it to her ?

[@IntheMOMENT22173]

Not sure why there would be such a reaction to you suggesting this. I would think that she would want to get help. Perhaps, she may have some other behavioral influences causing her to act in extreme ways.

[@heatherariza8463]

I think there are bigger issues if she won't even entertain the idea unfortunately. If my bf had mentioned it to me (any time besides during hell week / pmdd week anyways) I would want to get help to fix the situation and our relationship. I'm desperate for help, I'm the opposite, cuz I wanna be better and save our relationship which has been affected (unfortunately I have not found much help but I'm the exception as I cannot tolerate birth control or antidepressants. Most women can take something for it)

[@oasis6879]

For the longest time I couldn't figure out how I went from being ok to waking up absolutely not ok. I recently discovered I have pmdd and am now looking into what I can do to ease the effects of it. I become a completely different person and feel like a monster to those around me. It's awful.

[@Funksquanch]

Same. Its like I see myself about to say something horrible to my family, knowing it's wrong, but unable to stop it because I'm so irritable.

[@mylexnet]

This is such an important topic, thanks for that video I have PMDD since I'm 14 yo. I also have bipolar disorder 1. I take my meds every day and I'm doing well. But every month, 2-3 days before my mens, I get into a mixed state with migraine on the top. I can't concentrate and I feel so tired, but at the same time soooo angry. Then I get into a deep depression and the at the end, I get for two days into a hypomanic state. Every month... that's not fun

[@SirenASMR_]

I get super depressed and unable to walk … I can’t stay awake it’s horrible

[@mangobirdpicker]

This video was so informative and helpful. Today I was anxious and cried in my car and turned around and came home to rest bc of the sadness and depression. Now I know how I can help myself.

[@mariagates473]

It's genetic also. My mom had it and now I have it. She passed from ovarian cancer. Hope there is no link with that. And I absolutely had post partum depression as well.

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

Vitamin E saved my life when it comes to breast tenderness. Talk to your doc to see if you'd benefit from it if you have the same issues I had. Now I get no symptoms! Also, make sure the vitamin E isn't derived from any soy products. The phytoestrogens can cause PMDD symptoms to flair, at least that's what I found to be true in my case. Much love ✌

[@MSHoneybee210]

I’m am in love with this comment section. Makes me feel connected after life long mental health crisis each month. It hardly makes for a life but it helps knowing “the label” and what to do. I found that contraceptive helped maybe 50% but it was not enough

[@bl1ss544]

Hi, im wondering, do the PMDD symptoms (or whatever they are referred to as) go away as soon as you begin to bleed? I’m trying to figure out if I’m depressed or if it’s just my period. I think it’s the first, but I still feel the need to clarify.

[@pseudoplastic84]

I'm having PMDD and it starts 10 days before the date... I feel miserable, hate literally everything, short fuse.. esp with husband and children, depression, not feeling like doing anything, I just feel like lying and laze the day away .... And and crying ..... It's very difficult to go through this ...

[@erismiracle9779]

I have hypothyroidism and I also suspected for a while now I have PMDD. I’m so extreme emotionally.. i zap at people, especially those close to me. Two weeks before my period, I am always angry. If someone treats me in a rude manner I want to get back at them and make them taste their own medicine. I become so hateful with people who annoys me and refused to let it go. But when my periods starts, I am soft and happy and kind again. I hate This!

[@evgheniajenes1443]

The symptoms can also exacerbate with any hormonal fluctuations during the month. For example, my symptoms exacerbate once per week, every time that there is a steep change in the hormonal levels. It truly sucks.

[@lauragadille3384]

Yes this is me, however, I have bad insomnia before my period. After my period I can sleep for days. I've talked to my PA, she thinks it's part of my PCOS. I don't think so.

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

Same! I have insomnia to begin with but 10 days before my period I am so exhausted but unable to fall asleep and stay asleep easily. After I get my period I sleep like a log lol.

[@jadeg99]

Your PCOS is caused by a estrogen imbalance more than likely the pmdd is just another symptom of that same imbalance. I get insomnia during that time as well though. I think it’s definitely hormonal. My mum, who also had pmdd, use to be the same way until peri menopause kicked in. I feel like I sleep a lot after since my body goes through so much emotional trauma that my body needs a break afterwards, and that’s it’s way of doing so. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@amypola5903]

I notice my sleep issues get worse then too.

[@candyland8903]

I was diagnosed with this last year when I started having panic attacks for hours long during my luteal phase. I started keeping track of when and what symptoms I was having cuz my reg Dr just labeled it panic disorder and couldn't tell me why. I have always had panic attacks but never out of no where for no reason. But I started having them while I was asleep and they would wake me up out my sleep. Along with many other symptoms. So I went to my gyno since I noticed they all happen during the luteal phase. I told my reg Dr the pattern but they had no answer. But as soon as I started explaining my symptoms and how they are extreme during that luteal phase and she diagnosed me right away. I wish more reg Drs were aware of this cuz mine just kept tryin to push pills on me. I ended up altering my diet and started supplementing with magnesium and potassium and improved tremendously.

[@nipzd5082]

Ask your Dr for propranolol

[@francymanka8845]

Haloo candy,am suffering from the same,I have panic attacks one day before my period and after,full blows of panic attacks, I am on medication, Prozac and sereqoile,but I think my period is what trigger my panic attack, how can I handle this,

[@alid6616]

PMDD has ruined my life. Mine is so severe that I get paranoia on top of all the other symptoms

[@aryuatwin3950]

Wow, please let more GPs know how to help girls with this condition. I have suffered PMDD my entire reproductive life. I was put on a contraceptive at 15yrs of age but it was tri-phasic and provided very little improvement. 30yrs years later I realized a mono-phasic contraceptive might have been more stabilizing. My mother had this, I had this and now my daughter is showing all the signs. Makes it very challenging to maintain a regular job, maintain a relationship, affects connections with family and friends. The condition worsens with stress but eases with age. Happily, I can now say I have been released from the hellish cycling, thank you menopause!

[@kendracaruso4161]

God I can’t wait for menopause!!

[@Okinagrow]

Take your daughter to go see a psychiatrist if you can if that's something that you are ok with in general! Current research on PMDD is actually showing that it is not caused by a hormonal imbalance, more likely to be caused by the brains abnormal response to otherwise normal hormonal changes that take place during the menstrual cycle. This abnormal brain response lowers levels of serotonin in the brain, which in turn affects the way we feel (causing depression and anxiety symptoms). I am 30 years old and I was diagnosed with severe PMDD about a year ago by a psychiatrist. All it took was one visit, (I had already figured out I had PMDD) and because of the severity, I didn't need to keep a journal or anything in order for him to diagnose (I had been having ALL of the symptoms every single month, for at least 10 years). I was given the option of being prescribed antidepressants in order to give me a boost of serotonin during PMDD, and it helped while I took them... more stable mood, less anxiety (2-3 months until I was able to complete my studies after everything was jeopardized my a PMDD related mental breakdown during exams/while completing final dissertation).

[@daniellehoward3049]

This is so me. To a tee.. It is debilitating my life and it has been a burden on my marriage. I hope this is the awnser for me. I'm so very thankful for this. I have struggled since 12 years old when I started. But as soon as my period starts it's done. Thank you doctor.

[@peterboyd7149]

I am changing my Anti depressants at the moment. Been ok so far. As my Brain adapts to new anti depressants I am expecting it to get tougher. Can call the 24hr crisis team at my local community health centre thank God for our universal healthcare.

[@aryuatwin3950]

Hang in there, I rejected meds and relied purely on diet, suppliments and exercise my whole life. I wish I'd found the right anti- depressant earlier. All things combined really smooth out the cyclic rollercoaster.

[@kindellcarter2751]

My PMDD lasts two weeks but directly co-occurring with my 7 day period. Can’t do birth control so doc gave me a low dose of a certain medication and now I can deal with the feelings.

[@CASASHALOM7]

This makes alot of sense.. its really frustrating because i feel like my whole world stops during this time and i feel so down… and its hard to come out of it and on top of it all my periods are heavy and painful… ughhh never ends

[@rachelattack]

This gave me great information to take to my next appointment. I've been tracking things like mood, bloating, anger/anxiety/sadness, energy, pain, energy EVERY day. I can clearly see the pattern and I have that data to bring to the table. I don't want kids and ideally I'd like to have a hysterectomy because at 37, it's ruined my life for more than a decade. Thank you Dr. Ramani, it's AMAZING how little non-period-having-people know about it.

[@andijoann872]

I'm trying to tell my psychologist about this. I mentioned it to my psychiatrist and i find out tonight if I have pmdd vs bpd.

[@LuvBugBlaqkHart]

It could potentially be comorbid too. I have PMDD, C-PTSD, and ASD and it was REALLY hard to figure out what I all had since they overlap with a lot of symptoms but I found out I have all 3... lucky me lol. So I understand the struggle 💓 I hope you're able to figure things out soon!

[@ellairax]

Thank you for doing more videos about PMDD. It’s a serious issue but it is often really hard to diagnose, but the diagnosis makes a difference. I have PMDD and before it was treated with hormonal medications it was so severe that I was having thoughts / actions of self harm. The symptoms were actually quite like borderline personality disorder and we thought it might be that for a while. I have depression as well so we were trying to treat it with anti depressants, but it was not responding to the treatment even after several months of trying different things. I began to feel so hopeless. When I started taking hormonal medication, it improved significantly within the first month, it was incredible. What made matters even more complicated is that I have PCOS and before I was on hormonal medication, I had very irregular periods, and I actually started hormonal treatment for that before I realized I had PMDD. Because of the disruptions in my cycle the acute symptoms that would usually last 10 days before the onset of my period were significantly lengthened.

[@hanahjoe716]

Hey elliriea how you? Wow your comment is me just wanted to know what hormone therapy you are on? They have put me on marina coil I am hoping it works?

[@nibblesxsips]

I'm going to Mayo clinic tomorrow to get hopefully diagnosed with what I believe is PMDD. Wish me luck! Many of you mention the sudden mood shift and I totally agree with how scary that can be. I hope you all find the answers you're looking for.

[@liv.vivanty]

How did it go?

[@ShaTheDivine21]

Whats crazy for me is the increase of anxiety it is the total memory of having less anxiety before a week before my period. It’s issues in my relationship, being manic and it’s not just crying.. It’s turned up to the max, it’s the severe personality flip for me.