Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a debilitating health condition linked to the menstrual cycle. While there is still uncertainty around its causes—and no cure to date—there are ways that you can gain support for PMDD.
In this article, we share some of the best online resources and digital tools for PMDD, from educational organizations to health apps and trackers that can help you manage your symptoms and gain a diagnosis from your doctor.
What Is PMDD and Is It the Same as PMS?
PMDD is a cyclical hormone-based mood disorder that affects up to 8% of women during their reproductive years, according toHarvard Health Publishing. PMDD differs from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which refers to the common symptoms women can experience in the days or weeks ahead of their period. These include mood swings, breast tenderness, and headaches.
PMDD symptoms, on the other hand, are characterized by significant mood disturbances. The range of psychological, emotional, and physical symptoms is more intense than PMS and can be more debilitating to your daily activities and quality of life. PMDD tends to present itself during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (the last two weeks between ovulation and your period.)
The exact causes of PMDD aren’t fully understood, but researchers believe the symptoms are experienced in individuals who are very sensitive to natural hormonal shifts in a menstrual cycle. If you or a loved one is dealing with PMDD, here are some educational resources and symptom tracker apps to help you learn more and gain the support you need.
1. The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD)
TheInternational Association For Premenstrual Disorders(IAPMD) offers a comprehensive lifeline of support, information, and resources for anyone impacted by premenstrual disorders, including PMDD.
Here are some of the useful PMDD resources available to you on IAPMD:
You can also follow IAPMD onInstagramandYouTube, or tune into the IAPMD podcast (available on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart Radio) for more advice and information on PMDD.
2. The Office on Women’s Health
TheOffice on Women’s Healthis one of thebest online resources for women’s health advice and information. Providing comprehensive resources and support for women’s health issues, you can find evidence-based information and advice about PMDD.
The Office on Women’s Health has a dedicated menstrual cycle section on its website, with a feature covering premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Here you’re able to find a brief overview of PMDD, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information. You can also find a health center to help you with the diagnosis, management, and treatment of PMDD.
You can download a free fact sheet from the Office on Women’s Health that covers menstrual health. The fact sheet also provides further resources to access and a helpline if you need to speak to someone about your PMDD concerns.
3. MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health
TheCenter for Women’s Mental Healthat Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) focuses on the evaluation and treatment of psychiatric disorders related to the female reproductive function. PMDD is one of the specialty areas here, and you’ll find the following resources on the website:
For more support and advice, navigate to thePatient Supportarea of the website to access organizations, websites, and emergency services to help you with your PMDD.
As the primary mental health charity in the UK,Mindoffers advice and support to women suffering from PMDD. you’re able to read about premenstrual dysphoric disorder as well as access other patient’s stories and experiences of the condition.
Mind provides advice on how to gain a PMDD diagnosis and what to do if you’re struggling to get diagnosed. The website also provides advice to trans and non-binary people looking for PMDD support. Although Mind is UK-based, most of its advice can be transferred to international services.
Accessible for all wherever in the world you are is the PMDD self-care resource. Mind provides advice on how to look after yourself and find the support you need. It also signposts international organizations that can offer you more help with the condition.
5. Use a Menstrual Cycle App With Robust Tracking Measures
As tracking your symptoms plays a crucial part in gaining a medical diagnosis of PMDD, using a menstrual cycle app can help. Here are a handful of period apps that offer robust tracking features:
Most PMDD resources recommend that you record at least two full menstrual cycles before approaching a healthcare professional in order to provide the most insight into your health and well-being.
6. Track Your Overall Well-Being for a PMDD Diagnosis Using the Bearable App
While tracking your period can be a good way to help gain a PMDD diagnosis, using a well-being tracker can help give you (and your healthcare provider) a fuller picture of your health.
TheBearable app is a comprehensive well-being trackerthat can help you pinpoint your PMDD symptoms and gain the help you need from a healthcare professional. Alongside period tracking, you can record lifestyle factors (think sleep, nutrition, and activities) as well as your mood and other health measurements.
Tracking all well-being factors (including your menstrual cycle) can help give a fuller representation of your PMDD experience, putting you in better stead for a diagnosis from your doctor.
Download:Bearable forAndroid|iOS(Free, subscription available)
There Is Help Online if You Have Premenstrual Dysmorphic Disorder
If you’re experiencing symptoms of PMDD, there is help available. Hopefully, the above resources will provide you with the information, advice, and support you need to help manage your condition.
As PMDD is seen as a mental health condition, please make sure you are reaching out for help. It can be a good idea to talk to someone about your experience—whether that’s a trusted loved one or a healthcare professional—so that you have support while you seek the right treatment for your needs.
