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Survey study, 2009

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder and how common is it?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder affects 3 to 5 percent of women of reproductive age and causes severe mood problems and food cravings. It is much more severe than regular PMS and significantly disrupts quality of life and work.

Early or limited evidence Review summarizing information about PMS and PMDD across multiple studies and sources

What they did

Reviewed information about PMS and PMDD, including their symptoms, prevalence, and proposed biological and psychological causes.

What they found

Severe PMDD affects 3 to 5 percent of women of reproductive age. Women with PMDD experience severe dysphoric mood, greater desire and intake of certain foods, and impaired cognitive performance in the luteal phase. Both PMS and PMDD reduce quality of life and work ability. No single cause has been identified and no universal treatment exists yet.

What it means for you

PMDD is a serious condition affecting a small percentage of women and is distinct from regular PMS. The causes are complex and not fully understood, involving hormones and psychology. Many treatments are being developed but none is ideal for all women. Main limitation: this is a review, not new research.

3-5%

women of reproductive age with PMDD

About the study

Original title
Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Symptoms and Cluster Influences
Authors
Faustino Ramón Pérez-López, Peter A. Chedraui, Gonzalo R. Pérez‐Roncero et al.
Journal
The Open Psychiatry Journal
Year
2009
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
None (literature review)
Open access
Yes

Topics