Myth Busting: PMS vs PMDD
If you’ve ever been told that your extreme mood swings, depression, or rage before your period are “just PMS,” you’re not alone. But what if it’s actually PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)—a condition that affects 1 in 20 women and is often misdiagnosed or dismissed?
Let’s break down the myths and facts about PMS vs. PMDD so you can get to the root cause of your symptoms.
Myth #1: PMS and PMDD Are the Same Thing
Truth: PMS and PMDD exist on the same spectrum but are not the same.
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome): Mild to moderate symptoms like bloating, fatigue, breast tenderness, and mood changes that don’t disrupt daily life.
PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder): A severe, debilitating mood disorder that can cause suicidal thoughts, severe depression, rage, panic attacks, and extreme fatigue in the luteal phase (1-2 weeks before your period).
Think of PMS as a *gentle wave*, while PMDD is a “tsunami that takes over your life”.
Myth #2: PMDD Is a Hormonal Imbalance
Truth: PMDD is not caused by a hormone imbalance but by an extreme sensitivity to normal hormone fluctuations.
Estrogen & progesterone levels in women with PMDD are not necessarily abnormal—but the way the brain responds to these shifts is different.
Women with PMDD have a higher inflammatory response and altered neurotransmitter activity (like serotonin and GABA), which makes hormone changes feel unbearable.
While hormone support can help, the root cause is often nervous system sensitivity, inflammation, and impaired hormone metabolism—not a simple estrogen/progesterone imbalance.
PMDD isn’t about having “too much” or “too little” of a hormone—it’s about how your body processes and reacts to normal fluctuations.
Myth #3: PMDD Is Just “Bad PMS” and Nothing Serious
Truth: PMDD is classified as a **severe mood disorder** in the DSM-5 (same category as major depression and bipolar disorder).
It’s not just emotional sensitivity—it’s a hormone-related mood disorder that can seriously impact quality of life.
Symptoms disappear after your period starts (another key indicator of PMDD) unlike depression, which persists throughout the month.
PMDD is not your fault—it’s linked to genetics, inflammation, and how your brain processes hormones.
If you feel like a different person before your period, PMDD could be the cause.
Myth #4: The Only Treatment for PMDD Is Birth Control or Antidepressants
Truth: Conventional medicine often prescribes SSRIs (antidepressants) or birth control, but these only mask symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.
Holistic & Naturopathic Approaches to PMDD:
Balance Blood Sugar – Reducing sugar & refined carbs can prevent mood swings.
Support Progesterone & GABA – Magnesium, vitamin B6, and zinc help calm the nervous system and act as cofactors to support these pathways.
Heal Gut & Liver Detox Pathways – Poor oestrogen metabolism can worsen PMDD symptoms.
Manage Stress & Cortisol – Chronic stress depletes progesterone and worsens inflammation.
Track Your Cycle – Understanding your hormonal shifts can help you prepare for the luteal phase. Tracking your cycle can be done through temperature tracking and observing cervical mucous.
While medication can help some feel better temporarily, many women find that diet, lifestyle, and nervous system support make a dramatic difference.
Bottom Line
If you feel like a different person before your period, listen to your body. If PMS feels manageable but annoying—it’s likely PMS. If your symptoms feel overwhelming, unbearable, or life-altering—it could be PMDD.
If you think you need support in this area, let’s start the conversation - Leave a comment below.
You can also email me at info@thehillsnaturopath.com or visit my appointments page to make a booking!
