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Study, 2025

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and how is it diagnosed?

PMDD involves at least 5 psychological symptoms, including mood problems like mood swings, depression, anxiety, or irritability, in the week before the period. It was recognized in DSM-5 in 2013 and ICD-11 in 2022.

Early or limited evidence Not applicable (educational article about diagnosis, not a study).

What they did

Discussed the definition and history of PMDD as a medical diagnosis, including its criteria and how it affects women's lives.

What they found

PMDD is defined as the cyclical recurrence of at least 5 psychological symptoms, with at least one of four key psychiatric symptoms (mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability), in the premenstrual phase. Symptoms go away a few days after the period starts and severely impact women's daily functioning and quality of life.

What it means for you

Understanding the diagnostic criteria for PMDD may help doctors recognize and diagnose it. This article presented the definition and criteria but not new research findings about treatments or causes.

5

psychological symptoms required for PMDD

4

key psychiatric symptoms (at least one required)

2013

year PMDD was added to DSM-5

About the study

Original title
Can premenstrual symptoms help improve women’s healthcare?
Authors
Belinda Angela Pletzer
Journal
Open Access Government
Year
2025
Study design
Study
What was tested
None (educational article).
Open access
Yes

Topics