Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a disorder that can occur right before your period comes. This is a disorder that affects only about 5% of the population of folks that have a period.
PMDD is characterized by extreme mood-related symptoms about 3–4 days before the period begins that resolve after the period.
These symptoms are different from PMS-related mood swings. The mood-related changes are severe depression and suicidal ideation. It is normal to have mood changes right before your period, but people with PMDD often feel like they want to die. These symptoms make it incredibly difficult to function with normal activities of life.
Treatment Options for PMDD
PMDD is treated with several different options.
Yaz (Combined Oral Contraceptive)
Yaz, a combined oral contraceptive birth control pill, is studied to treat the symptoms of PMDD. Not everyone is a candidate for estrogen and estrogen is not without risk, so it is important to be sure you are a good candidate for this option.
Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin is another option that has been studied to support patients with PMDD. Understandably, patients can be hesitant to try this option because it feels like we are suggesting this is a mental problem. That is not the case in this situation. Many options have been studied including other mental health medications. Wellbutrin is the only one that was shown to improve overall symptoms of PMDD.
Hormonal IUD
An IUD can be a treatment to help with PMDD if it can suppress the period for the patient. If the hormone levels are kept stable and no period returns, the symptoms of PMDD can be improved.
Over-the-Counter Options
There is some patient-led evidence that says taking an antihistamine like Zyrtec or Claritin and a heartburn medication like Pepcid during the luteal phase of the cycle can improve the symptoms of PMDD.
These effects are still being studied by the scientific community. There is little risk to these medications and they may help improve symptoms, so it may be worth a try for some patients.
These are also medications that can be bought over the counter and are fairly affordable, making this option more accessible for some patients than a prescription.
PMDD Care in Greensboro and Across North Carolina
If you experience severe mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts before your period, Haven Health provides PMDD evaluation and treatment in Greensboro, North Carolina and by telehealth across the state.
Many patients are told they only have PMS when their symptoms are much more severe. Haven Health helps you understand the difference and offers evidence-based treatment options.
Patients from Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown, Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Kernersville, and surrounding Guilford County communities visit Haven Health for compassionate reproductive and mental health support.
If you live anywhere in Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, Asheville, Wilmington, or anywhere in NC, you can meet with a provider virtually to discuss your symptoms and find the right treatment plan.
Haven Health provides patient-centered, evidence-based care both in person and online across North Carolina.