Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
If you feel like a different person before your period, it may be more than PMS.
PMDD can cause severe cyclical changes in mood, thinking and the ability to manage daily life. The symptoms are real, they follow a pattern, and they deserve appropriate medical attention.
PMDD can affect your sense of safety and control
PMDD symptoms usually appear in the second half of the menstrual cycle and improve after the period begins. During that time, some women describe feeling overwhelmed, intensely anxious, angry, hopeless or disconnected from their usual selves.
Symptoms may affect relationships, work, parenting, sleep and decision-making. They can also include thoughts of self-harm or suicide. These are not symptoms you should have to manage alone.
If you are thinking about harming yourself, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero on 000.
02
Your PMDD appointment
Understand what happens, and when it happens.
You may wish to discuss:
- 01
severe irritability, anger or conflict
- 02
depression, hopelessness or sudden emotional distress
- 03
anxiety, tension or feeling on edge
- 04
rapid mood changes or increased sensitivity to rejection
- 05
difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- 06
exhaustion, insomnia or sleeping more than usual
- 07
feeling unable to manage work, relationships or daily responsibilities
- 08
thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- 09
physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches or joint pain
Your doctor may ask about the timing of symptoms, what changes after your period begins, your mental health history, medication, contraception, menstrual cycle and other conditions that could be contributing.
PMDD is assessed by recording symptoms across at least two menstrual cycles and considering their timing, severity and effect on daily functioning. There is no single blood test that confirms PMDD. You can still make an appointment before you begin tracking.
If available, bring the dates of recent periods, a list of medicines and supplements, previous mental health or medical treatment information, and any notes about how symptoms change across the month.
03
PMDD is not simply severe PMS
PMS and PMDD can both involve physical and emotional symptoms before a period. PMDD is distinguished by severe mood symptoms and a significant effect on daily functioning.
Assessment also considers whether an existing condition, such as depression or anxiety, is present throughout the month and becomes worse before a period. Understanding this difference helps guide appropriate treatment.
04
Treatment and ongoing review
Treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, contraception needs and mental health. Options may include medication that acts on mood symptoms, hormonal treatment, psychological support and practical strategies for managing high-risk days.
A care plan may also include follow-up, symptom tracking and a safety plan. Your doctor can discuss the potential benefits and risks of suitable options and review how well the treatment is working.
Related care
Related care at Mahila
PMSSupport for recurring physical or emotional symptoms in the lead-up to your period.Read more
PerimenopauseAssessment and support for changes in periods, sleep, mood, temperature, concentration, energy and more.Read more
ContraceptionIndividual advice about contraceptive options based on your health, preferences and stage of life.Read more
Sexual HealthConfidential care for STI screening, sexual wellbeing and concerns affecting comfort or sexual function.Read more
Adult ADHD AssessmentsSupportive adult ADHD assessment informed by the ways attention and executive function difficulties can present in women.Read more
Appointment length
Choose the appointment type that matches where you are in your care. Exact fees follow the medical consultation fee schedule unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
New patients
45-minute consultation
Returning patients (follow-up)
Up to 20 minutes. If the consultation runs longer, an additional fee may be charged.
Medical consultation fees are listed below. Confirm appointment and fee details with reception when booking.
Medical consultation fees
Mahila Women's Clinic is a private billing practice. The following medical consultation fees apply unless a service page states a different confirmed fee.
A Medicare rebate may apply to an eligible medical consultation. The item billed depends on the service provided, the actual consultation time, the clinician and Medicare requirements.
Procedures, pathology, imaging, products, equipment and other services may involve additional costs. Relevant additional fees should be shown on the individual service page or discussed before the service is provided.
| Consultation length | Clinic fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 20 minutes | $150 |
| Up to 30 minutes | $280 |
| Up to 45 minutes | $380 |
| 60 minutes or longer | $450 |
Talk with a doctor about your concerns.
Book an appointment at Mahila Women's Clinic in Camberwell.