Is It PMS Or PMDD?

PMS, or pre-menstrual syndrome is a collection of physical & emotional symptoms that some women may experience both in the lead up to, and during their period.

There is no one singular cause for PMS symptoms, however factors implicated in PMS include:

〰️ hormonal imbalances

〰️ inflammation

〰️ HPA axis dysfunction due to chronic stress

〰️ nutrient deficiencies

〰️ excess levels of ADH leading to water retention

Symptoms of PMS may include:
〰️ anxiety
〰️ irritability
〰️ fatigue
〰️ mood swings
〰️ lower back pain
〰️ changes in bowel movements
〰️ tender breasts
〰️ abdominal pain
〰️ cravings or changes in appetite

We can classify PMS into 4 different categories:

PMS-A (anxiety)

PMS-D (depression)

PMS-H (hyper-hydration / fluid retention)

PMS-C (cravings)

PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a condition of severe menstrual depression, irritability or anxiety and is far less common than PMS.

Symptoms may include:
〰️ depressed mood
〰️ anger or irritability
〰️ lack of interest in usual hobbies/activities
〰️ moodiness
〰️ insomnia
〰️ feelings of overwhelm or lack of control

While PMS may be common, severe symptoms leading up to and during your period should not be normalised, and isn't part of a normal period.

There is a lot we can do naturopathically to support the nervous system, modulate hormones & reduce symptoms of PMS and PMDD.