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Premenstrual dysphoric disorder - Overview

Alternative Names

PMDD

Definition of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder:

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a condition marked by severe depression symptoms, irritability, and tension before menstruation. These symptoms are more severe than those seen with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The causes of PMS and PMDD have not been identified.

Hormone changes that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle appear to play a role.

PMDD affects between 3 - 8% of women during the years they are having menstrual periods. The condition is usually worse in younger women.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), major depression, anxiety, and similar disorders are seen in many women with this condition.

Other factors that may play a role include:

Alcohol abuse
Drinking large amounts of caffeine
Having a mother with a history of the disorder
Lack of exercise

Depression and the menstrual cycle

Reviewed last on: 12/31/2008
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Braverman PK. Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2007 Feb;20(1):3-12.

Lentz GM. Primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: etiology, diagnosis, management. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 36.

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