How can you receive a diagnosis for PMDD?

From symptoms to diagnosis

Symptoms of PMDD typically occur 1-2 weeks before menstruation. These symptoms may include depression, anxiety, irritability, anger, feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and more.

The only way to obtain a diagnosis of PMDD or PME is by diligently tracking your symptoms on a daily basis for a period of two months. Afterward, a diagnosis can be made by a healthcare professional such as a general practitioner, gynecologist, or psychiatrist, provided there is a clear connection to your menstrual cycle.

There are various methods available to track your symptoms, such as using pen and paper, keeping a diary, or utilizing a mobile application.

Scientists theorize that the brain may be hypersensitive to the natural hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. It's important to note that a blood test cannot confirm whether you have PMDD or PME, as hormone levels are not excessively high or low compared to individuals without these conditions.

However, a blood test may be recommended to rule out other conditions like thyroid problems or hormonal imbalances. It's possible for PMDD/PME to coexist with a hormonal imbalance, so one does not exclude the other.

Misdiagnoses & Treatment

It typically takes an average of 12 years for women with PMDD to receive an accurate diagnosis. Many women mistakenly believe that their symptoms are "normal" and hesitate to seek medical help for an extended period of time.

PMDD was officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019. It has been included in the DSM-5, the primary psychiatric manual, since 2013. However, it has only gained significant international attention in recent years. As a result, it will take time for all doctors and gynecologists to become familiar with it. Therefore, it is possible that your doctor may not be aware of PMDD (yet).

When doctors lack sufficient knowledge about the disorder or fail to recognize the connection with the menstrual cycle, misdiagnosis can occur. Common misdiagnoses include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, or panic disorder, among others. This is because the symptoms partially overlap. Unfortunately, the suggested treatment options may not be adequately effective since PMDD has a distinct underlying cause.

Women often face a lack of understanding within the medical field when they attempt to establish the correlation with their menstrual cycle. They frequently feel disregarded, leading to significant delays in receiving proper assistance for PMDD.

Seeking a PMDD Specialist?

There are currently no specialized PMDD specialists available. To obtain a diagnosis, you can consult with your general practitioner, gynecologist, or psychiatrist. Unfortunately, many doctors are not familiar with PMDD, so it is important to find the right healthcare professional. But how can you locate one?

You can explore various Facebook support groups where women provide mutual support. Feel free to inquire about recommended doctors within these groups. The Flemish Facebook group can be found here.

Conclusion

Women with PMDD typically endure their symptoms for an average of 12 years before receiving an accurate diagnosis. The only way to establish the connection with your menstrual cycle is by consistently tracking your symptoms on a daily basis for 2-3 cycles. It is important to know that you are not alone, as many women face this condition. Therefore, don't hesitate to seek help for your mental well-being and make sure to reach out for assistance in a timely manner.