What is PMDD?
The majority (up to 80%) of girls and women report unpleasant symptoms around the time of menstruation. Usually, these symptoms are mild- you notice that you are a bit more emotional, and may have physical symptoms (cramps, headaches etc). This is what is known at PMS.
However, in approximately 5% of women, the symptoms expe
What is PMDD?
The majority (up to 80%) of girls and women report unpleasant symptoms around the time of menstruation. Usually, these symptoms are mild- you notice that you are a bit more emotional, and may have physical symptoms (cramps, headaches etc). This is what is known at PMS.
However, in approximately 5% of women, the symptoms experienced around menstruation are severe enough to affect the ability to function (at home, at work, or in relationships) and this is referred to as PMDD.
What causes PMDD?
The exact cause of PMDD is unknown, but it's thought to be related to the hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Because of this, the symptoms are episodic- they start around a week prior to menstruation and resolve a week after.
How do we treat it?
Initial diagnosis will involve symptom tracking to confirm that the symptoms are related to the menstrual cycle. Thereafter, a combination of lifestyle changes, supportive therapies and medication will be used to manage symptoms depending on each individual case.
What is the peripartum period?
The peripartum period is the time surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. It begins a few weeks before you get pregnant and continues until about six months after giving birth. It’s a time of big changes—physically, emotionally, and hormonally.
How can a women’s mental health be affected during this time?
Durin
What is the peripartum period?
The peripartum period is the time surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. It begins a few weeks before you get pregnant and continues until about six months after giving birth. It’s a time of big changes—physically, emotionally, and hormonally.
How can a women’s mental health be affected during this time?
During this period, a woman’s mental health can be affected in many ways. Many women may experience mood swings or the "baby blues," which are very common and usually go away on their own. Others may face more serious issues like depression, anxiety, or, in rare cases, psychosis. These more severe conditions can make it hard for a woman to take care of herself and her baby, so it's very important to detect and treat them early.
How do we treat it?
The treatment required depends on the specific condition. A full evaluation will help figure out what kind of care is needed. The best approach is a holistic one—this might include emotional support from loved ones, therapy, and, if needed, safe medications that are suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is the perimenopausal period?
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when a woman's body starts to go through natural changes as it prepares to stop having periods. This stage can begin in your 40s (sometimes earlier) and can last for several years until menopause is complete. During this time, hormone levels—especially e
What is the perimenopausal period?
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when a woman's body starts to go through natural changes as it prepares to stop having periods. This stage can begin in your 40s (sometimes earlier) and can last for several years until menopause is complete. During this time, hormone levels—especially estrogen—go up and down, which can cause a variety of physical and emotional changes.
How can a woman’s mental health be affected during this time?
The hormonal shifts during perimenopause can have a big impact on mental health. Many women notice mood swings, irritability, low energy, or trouble sleeping. Some may experience anxiety or depression for the first time, or find that previous mental health issues become worse. These symptoms aren’t just “in your head”—they’re real and caused in part by the changes happening in your body.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are and how much they affect your daily life. It may include lifestyle changes, emotional support, therapy, and in some cases, medication. Hormone therapy can be helpful for some women, and any treatment plan should consider your overall health, history, and personal preferences.
Of course, mental health challenges can arise at any stage of a woman’s life—not just during pregnancy, postpartum, or perimenopause. Life brings many different stresses and transitions. No matter the cause or the season of life you're in, your mental health matters.
Our mental well-being is the foundation of how we think, feel, and relat
Of course, mental health challenges can arise at any stage of a woman’s life—not just during pregnancy, postpartum, or perimenopause. Life brings many different stresses and transitions. No matter the cause or the season of life you're in, your mental health matters.
Our mental well-being is the foundation of how we think, feel, and relate to the world around us. It affects our relationships, our ability to cope with stress, our confidence, and even our physical health. That’s why taking care of your mental health is not a luxury—it’s essential.
Reaching out for help is a powerful and courageous step. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Support, understanding, and healing are within reach. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, or something you can’t quite name, know that you deserve care, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey toward mental wellness.
Copyright © 2025 Dr Stephanie Eichstadt Psychiatry - All Rights Reserved.
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