Get help

• A GP or primary-care doctor — usually the first stop.
• A gynecologist, for cycle-related and hormonal assessment.
• A psychiatrist, if mood symptoms are severe or you already have a mental health diagnosis.
• Other qualified professionals such as psychologists, therapists, or specialist premenstrual disorder clinics where they exist.

Approaches vary by person and are decided with a clinician. Broadly, they can include:

• Medication, including certain antidepressants used in specific ways for premenstrual symptoms.
• Hormonal treatments, such as some combined contraceptives or other hormone-based options.
• Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
• Sleep, exercise, nutrition and stress-support strategies alongside other treatment.
• In severe, treatment-resistant cases, specialist options discussed with a clinician.

This is general education. It isn't a recommendation for you, and nothing here should be started or stopped without a qualified healthcare professional.

• Track symptoms daily for at least two cycles, including period start and end dates.
• Note how symptoms affect work, relationships and daily functioning.
• Write down what you want to say before you go — premenstrual brain fog is real.
• Ask directly about PMDD and other premenstrual disorders if you think the pattern fits.
• If you don't feel heard, it is reasonable to seek a second opinion.

Other conditions can look like PMDD, and some conditions get worse premenstrually without being PMDD. A professional assessment gets you the right treatment faster.

If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, get urgent support here.