---
title: Is PMDD linked to depression? | Niyora
description: PMDD and depression are strongly linked. Nearly all studies found that people with PMDD were more likely to have depression, and people with depression were m
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/the-association-between-premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-and-depression-a-2023/
---

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- Is PMDD linked to depression?

Systematic review, 2023

# Is PMDD linked to depression?

PMDD and depression are strongly linked. Nearly all studies found that people with PMDD were more likely to have depression, and people with depression were more likely to have PMDD.

 Strong study design

Studies from various countries examining the overlap between PMDD and depression.

## What they did

Systematic review of 10 studies published between 2001 and 2018 examining the relationship between PMDD and depression.

## What they found

All but one of the 10 studies found a positive association between PMDD and depression, either current or past. Many studies found that a history of depression (even without current depression) was linked to PMDD.

## What it means for you

If you have PMDD, your doctor should watch for signs of depression, and vice versa. Depression treatment should take PMDD into account. The main limit is that more than half the studies did not use proper daily prospective tracking, which is needed to confirm a PMDD diagnosis, so some participants may not have actually had PMDD.

10

Studies reviewed

9

Studies finding a positive association

3-8%

Percentage of reproductive-age women with PMDD

## About the study

Original title The association between premenstrual dysphoric disorder and depression: A systematic review Authors Heidi Eccles, Verinder Sharma Journal Journal of Affective Disorders Reports Year 2023 Study design Systematic review Open access Yes Read the paper [doi.org/10.1016/j.jadr.2023.100504](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadr.2023.100504)

## Topics

[Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pmdd/)[Menstrual cycle and mood](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-cycle-mood/)[Low mood and depression](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-depression-mood/)[Major depressive disorder](https://niyora.com/research/topics/comorbidity-major-depression/)

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## Related studies

Cohort study, 2026

What genetic factors are linked to premenstrual symptoms?

Randomised trial, 2025

Does taking an antidepressant only during the second half of your cycle reduce anger and aggression in PMDD?

Randomised trial, 2000

Does sertraline improve how women with PMDD feel and function?

Study, 2026

Do anxiety and depression get worse before your period if you already have a mental health condition?

Study, 2026

What are premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder?

Study, 2026

What treatments work for PMDD?

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