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Study, 2011

What is PMDD and how common is it?

PMDD is a condition where mood symptoms occur regularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle and cause problems with daily life. It affects 3 to 5 percent of women.

Early or limited evidence General information about women with PMDD; this is not a research study

What they did

This article explains and defines PMDD, describes how common it is, and outlines how doctors diagnose it.

What they found

PMDD is a relatively new term that describes mood symptoms in the menstrual cycle that are severe enough to interfere with daily functioning. It affects an estimated 3 to 5 percent of women.

What it means for you

PMDD is different from general PMS because mood symptoms must be severe enough to disrupt daily life for the diagnosis to apply. Understanding this distinction helps doctors identify women who need specific treatment for PMDD. This article provides educational information rather than reporting new research findings.

3-5

percent of women with PMDD

About the study

Original title
The Menstrual Cycle and Mood: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors
Marlene P. Freeman
Journal
Journal watch
Year
2011
Study design
Study

Topics