DAY, DATE MONTH 2025

ARTICLE BY MO WELLNESS HUB X ABBY DALE

BETWEEN PMS & PMDD

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are both conditions associated with the menstrual cycle, yet they vary significantly in their severity and impact on daily life.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)

PMS is a common experience for many menstruation women, characterised by a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the luteal phase and typically resolves with menstruation.

PMS is thought to arise from the interplay between hormonal fluctuations and the brain’s response to these changes. During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, which can affect our neurotransmitters in our brain, particularly serotonin which is a regulator of mood, appetite, and sleep. Reduced serotonin activity during the luteal phase may lead to mood changes, irritability, and cravings that characterise PMS.

Additionally, the decrease in progesterone just before menstruation may contribute to physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness.

Physical Symptoms:

· Bloating

· Breast tenderness

· Headaches

· Fatigue

· Digestive changes (constipation or diarrhea)

Mood and Behavioral Symptoms:

· Irritability

· Mild mood swings

· Difficulty concentrating

· Sleep disturbances

· Increased appetite or cravings

PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER (PMDD)

PMDD is a more severe condition that affects a smaller percentage of women. It is marked by intense emotional and physical symptoms that can be debilitating and significantly disrupt daily life.

The psychological symptoms of PMDD, such as severe mood swings, feelings of despair, and heightened anxiety, are far more pronounced than those seen in PMS. PMDD involves a heightened sensitivity to these hormonal changes possibly due to genetic, neurochemical, and cellular factors which increase the body’s response to normal hormonal fluctuations. Altered sensitivity, particularly to allopregnanolone, impairs the calming effects of GABA on the brain which can lead to increased mood instability, heightened anxiety, and severe emotional symptoms.

A naturopathic practitioner can provide individualised care, addressing root causes and guiding dietary, herbal, and lifestyle interventions tailored to unique needs.

Physical Symptoms:

· Severe fatigue

· Joint or muscle pain

· Swelling or tenderness in the breasts

· Severe bloating and weight gain

Mood and Behavioral Symptoms:

· Intense irritability or anger

· Severe mood swings

· sudden sadness or tearfulness

· Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

· Anxiety or tension

· Difficulty concentrating

· Insomnia or hypersomnia