Every woman’s menstrual experience is different. While PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) brings fatigue, bloating, or mood swings, it's usually manageable. But for some, it goes beyond discomfort-enter PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), a severe, life-impacting condition.

PMDD affects fewer women but is much more intense, often bringing feelings of hopelessness, anger, or anxiety that disrupt work, relationships, and daily function. The cause? A hypersensitive response in the brain to natural hormonal changes-especially affecting serotonin levels.

According to doctors, PMS can often be managed through lifestyle changes like exercise, sleep, and diet. But PMDD may need antidepressants (SSRIs), hormonal therapy, or therapy, especially when symptoms appear in the premenstrual phase and vanish after periods begin.

Many women go undiagnosed because their symptoms are dismissed as normal. But recognizing the patterns and seeking timely help can be life-changing. PMDD is not just worse PMS-it’s a serious medical condition that deserves attention, treatment, and awareness.

Understanding this difference could be the first step toward reclaiming emotional stability during your cycle.