Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Treatment Available Today
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a condition that happens during the days before a person’s period and can be treated by medications. Consult with one of our board-certified doctors online today to get a prescription to treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) or refill an existing prescription today.*
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Tailored solutions for PMDD relief
Expert screening for PMDD
Presents a variety of physical and emotional symptoms
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Learn about Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) describes a group of emotional and physical symptoms that happen 1–2 weeks before your period starts. PMDD is a severe and chronic medical condition that requires attention and treatment.
While PMDD is similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the symptoms of PMDD are more severe. If you have severe PMS symptoms that disrupt your daily life, you may have PMDD.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) causes
The exact cause of PMDD is unknown. Recent research suggests that PMDD may be an abnormal reaction to normal hormone changes that happen throughout the menstrual cycle, leading to serotonin deficiency.
Research also suggests other possible causes for PMDD, along with risk factors that may worsen PMDD symptoms. Some possible factors are:Genetics: Increased sensitivity to hormone changes may be caused by genetics.
Smoking: Smoking may impact your hormone sensitivity.
Trauma and stress: PMDD may be linked to traumatic events, such as emotional abuse. Stress can also exacerbate PMDD symptoms.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) symptoms
The symptoms of PMDD typically start 7–10 days before the beginning of your period during the luteal phase. Similar to premenstrual syndrome, PMDD involves a range of physical and emotional symptoms.
The emotional symptoms of PMDD can include:
Anger or irritability
Agitation or nervousness
Crying spells
Depressed mood
Feeling out of control
Mood swings
Panic attacks
Paranoia
Thoughts of suicide
The physical symptoms of PMDD can include:
Acne
Bloating
Breast tenderness
Cramps
Food cravings or appetite changes
Gastrointestinal issues, including nausea and diarrhea
Joint or muscle pain
Low sex drive
Muscle spasms
Painful periods
*Disclaimer: You should seek emergency attention immediately if you are experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, suicidal thoughts, or extreme anxiety.
How to treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Several treatment options can help you manage PMDD symptoms. The treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder typically involves:
Lifestyle changes: For many women with PMDD, healthy lifestyle changes can make a major difference in PMDD symptoms. Getting regular exercise, finding healthy stress management strategies, and eating a balanced diet can help reduce symptom severity.
Cognitive behavioral therapy: If you experience difficult emotional symptoms, working with a therapist can help you develop sustainable coping strategies.
Medication: If other treatments aren't improving your PMDD symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications for treating symptoms.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) medication
Several medications can help treat premenstrual symptoms, including:
Antidepressants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant, can help treat the emotional and physical symptoms of PMDD. Some women with PMDD take the same dose each day, while others follow luteal phase dosing to increase their dosage when premenstrual symptoms arise.
Birth control pills
Hormonal therapies, including birth control pills, can help prevent ovulation so you avoid PMDD symptoms altogether. For some people, taking birth control pills helps reduce premenstrual symptoms. But for others, they can make symptoms worse.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists
GnRH agonists stop your ovaries from producing estrogen and progesterone. While this can be helpful for PMDD, stopping ovulation can have other effects on your body.
How to prevent Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Seeking treatment for existing mental disorders, including mood disorders and anxiety disorders, can help lower your risk of developing severe PMS symptoms.
However, since PMDD may be related to hormone sensitivity, it's not always possible to prevent PMDD. In that case, treatment can help you manage symptoms.
When to see a doctor for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
If severe PMS symptoms interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor about treatment options for PMDD. You might need to try several treatments before you find the right fit, and that's normal.
You should also talk to your doctor if you're experiencing:
Extreme anxiety and panic attacks
Severe depression or suicidal thoughts
Uncontrollable anger
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) treatment FAQs
What is PMDD?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a menstrual disorder that happens 1–2 weeks before your period starts. While PMD is similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD causes more severe symptoms, including severe mood symptoms, tension, and painful periods.
What causes PMDD?
The exact cause of PMDD is unknown, but hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle may play a role. Serotonin levels change during the menstrual cycle, and some people may be more sensitive to these changes.
How much does Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) treatment cost?
The average cost of genetic antidepressants without insurance is $62.50 for 30 tablets, while the average cost of therapy ranges from $65 to $250+ depending on where you live.
How is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) passed on?
Some research suggests that increased hormone sensitivity may be caused by genetic variations. If you have a family history of PMDD, you may be more likely to develop PMDD.
How is PMDD treated?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is usually treated with a combination of lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication. Different treatments work for different people, and it may take some trial and error to find the right treatment for you.
When does PMDD start?
The symptoms of PMDD usually start 7–10 days before menstruation and subside a few days after your period starts.
3 simple steps to request treatment for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) today
Step 1
Book a PMDD treatment appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your PMDD symptoms.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up a prescription to treat PMDD.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Related conditions to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Anxiety disorders
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Major depression
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Stress
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) treatment pricing details
How pricing works
To request Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) treatment and get a new or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
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Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) treatment resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
John Hopkins Medicine. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Accessed on August 6, 2022. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd
Mayo Clinic. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Different from PMS? Accessed on August 6, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/expert-answers/pmdd/faq-20058315
Office on Women's Health. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Accessed on August 6, 2022. https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome/premenstrual-dysphoric-disorder-pmdd