This myth is often paired with the idea that people with PMDD should just think happy thoughts or put mind over matter. All of these related myths come from a fundamental misunderstanding of what causes PMDD.
All people who menstruate experience hormonal fluctuations throughout their menstrual cycles. However, each person experiences these shifts differently. For some people, the changes in hormone levels cause mild bloating and other tolerable physical symptoms. Many people experience PMS due to hormonal shifts throughout their cycles.
PMDD is a less common but more severe reaction to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. In this sense, PMDD is an endocrine disorder because the cause is hormonal in nature. However, it is classified in the DSM-5 due to the serious psychological symptoms.
Myth: There’s No Treatment for People with PMDD
Far too many people go without treatment for PMDD because they believe there is no hope. Some people may not even realize that sever psychological symptoms aren’t typical in the days before a period. The good news is that there are many treatment options for people who live with PMDD.
Treatment options for PMDD include:
Antidepressants
Hormone therapy
Oral contraceptives
Hysterectomy
SSRIs, a type of antidepressant, are the first-line treatment for people with PMDD. Other methods are only used if the initial medications do not work for the patient. Hysterectomy is ony used as a last resort.
Many lifestyle changes can help people with PMDD naturally reduce symptoms. This can include eating a health diet, reducing stress, and getting regular exercise. These changes are typically recommended alongside medical treatment, not as a replacement. It’s always important to consult your doctor before making changes to your care plan.