Premenstrualdysphoricdisorder (PMDD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are two conditions linked to the menstrual cycle.
Both cause many of the same symptoms, such as fatigue, mood changes, and bloating.
There are no formal tests to diagnose PMS or PMDD.
Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Premenstrualdysphoricdisorderandpremenstrual syndromeare easily confused because they share many physical and emotional symptoms.
Here is how these conditions compare.
Severity of Mental Health Effects
The severity of mental health effects differs between PMDD and PMS.
The mental health effects of PMDD can interfere with your normal work, social, or home activities.
These mental health effects can be so severe that people with PMDD have an increased risk ofsuicideand suicidal behavior.
For example, PMS can trigger feelings of mood changes and feelings ofdepression.
Similarities/Overlaps in PMS and PMDD Symptoms
Many symptoms overlap between PMS and PMDD.
While PMS is a natural reaction, it is not a necessary part of the menstrual cycle.
A wide range of physical and emotional symptoms: PMS includes over 150 symptoms that affect everyone differently.
The symptoms vary by person.
Despite misconceptions, people who have PMS symptoms are typically not having their period.
Monthly symptoms that can increase stress: PMS can affect your ability to maintain normal sleeping and eating patterns.
Mild PMS symptoms do not usually interfere with your ability to participate in everyday activities.
Prescription medications can relieve severe symptoms that do not respond to lifestyle modifications.
Several types of providers can offer insights into your symptoms of PMS and PMDD.
Ideally, you will work with a multidisciplinary team of medical providers.
If possible, seek out providers who are well-informed and experienced in diagnosing and treating premenstrual disorders.
Presenting this information to your provider can help lead to a quicker diagnosis and treatment.
Consider bringing a partner, trusted family member, or friend to your appointment.
They can help you take notes and pose questions that you may not think to ask.
Treatment Differences and Similarities
PMS and PMDD do not have standard treatment regimens.
Numerous symptoms can occur with PMDD, and over 150 symptoms have been linked with PMS.
No one has all the identified symptoms.
In some cases, one symptom is most prominent.
Therefore, treatment must be individualized to each person’s symptoms, preferences, and needs.
Since so many symptoms overlap, some treatments may be helpful for both disorders.
For Emotional and Psychological Effects
Conservative Treatments
Conservative treatments are the first tried for PMS.
These treatments can improve symptoms without the side effects inherent in drug treatments.
These treatments include:
A combination of conservative treatments and prescription drugs is often advised for treating PMDD.
Living With PMDD and Bad PMS
Living with PMDD and bad PMS can feel overwhelming.
Intense emotional symptoms interfere with your ability to live a normal life.
The cyclical nature of symptoms can leave you feeling hopeless and out of control.
Symptoms of PMDD and PMS can start anytime between puberty and menopause.
PMDD and PMS symptoms may get worse with age or during periods of stress.
PMS, PMDD, and other menstrual problems go away atmenopause(the end of menstrual periods).
PMS and PMDD differ in the severity with which the symptoms occur.
The symptoms of PMS can cause physical discomfort, mood swings, and depression.
These symptoms become much more intense and sometimes dangerous in PMDD.
UCLA Health.Is your severe PMS actually premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?
International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPD).What is PMDD?
Office on Women’s Health (OASH).Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Center for Reproductive Health.Normal menstrual cycle.
2022;101(1):e28528.
National Association for Premenstrual Syndrome.What is PMS?
doi:10.1186/s12905-023-02752-y
Office on Women’s Health (OASH).Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
2022;22(1):199. doi:10.1186/s12888-022-03851-0
International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPD).Finding a provider.
DailyMed.Yaz-drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol kit.
doi:10.1111/1471-0528.14260
MedlinePlus.Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School.Treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health.PMDD/PMS: When PMS symptoms interfere with functioning and quality of life.
