im_ohne | INSTAGRAM | MAY 14

PMDD Affects 1 in 20 people with periods and there has been little to no attempt at finding out why it happens. We want to know why not? Do you have pmdd? What symptoms affect your day to day life the most? Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a very severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It affects 1 in 20 people with periods PMDD occurs during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle. This is the time between when you ovulate and when your period starts. No one knows the exact causes of PMS or PMDD, but changes in hormone levels are thought to play a part. Genetics may also play a role. Getting a formal diagnosis can feel like a double edge sword. On the one hand a PMDD diagnosis can feed into harmful stereotypes, you’re “moody”, “hormonal” and “emotional”. On the other hand, formal recognition from a medical professional can make a difference to someone who feels isolated and helpless. With growing numbers of people diagnosed its no surprise they are turning to the internet for a sense of community. This is particularly true when you consider the lack of support available currently.