Getting care for PMS and PMDD

Care guide

Finding a PMDD specialist

- No single credential covers PMDD; look for a gynecologist, psychiatrist, or a dedicated PMS/PMDD clinic. - Start with your OB-GYN or primary care doctor for a referral, or search for a reproductive psychiatrist directly. - Track symptoms daily for at least two cycles before your first visit.

Care guide

How to get a PMDD diagnosis

PMDD is diagnosed by tracking symptoms daily for at least two menstrual cycles and having a clinician match that pattern against DSM-5-TR criteria. There's no blood test for it. A gynecologist, psychiatrist, or informed primary care doctor can confirm it once other causes, like premenstrual exacerbation, are ruled out.

Care guide

PMDD books, podcasts and resources

No single book or podcast can diagnose PMDD, but good ones explain the DSM-5-TR criteria clearly and send you toward daily tracking instead of generic coping tips. Look for authors with a clinical background, resources that separate PMS from PMDD, and treat a tracking chart as the most useful book you'll use this month.

PMDD crisis support

PMDD helpline and crisis lines: who to call now

If you're thinking about ending your life, call or text 988 in the US, Samaritans at 116 123 in the UK, or another verified crisis line for your country below. PMDD raises the risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts, so asking for help early, in the days before your period, is the safe move.

NHS care pathway

Getting PMDD care on the NHS

Yes, the NHS can diagnose and treat PMDD, usually starting with your GP and a symptom diary. Treatment includes SSRIs (daily or luteal-phase only), some combined hormonal contraceptives, and CBT, with referral to gynaecology or mental health services if symptoms are severe. If your GP isn't sure what PMDD is, bring two months of tracked symptoms and ask directly for a referral.

Care guide

When your teenager might have PMDD

- Severe anger, crying or hopelessness that clusters in the week before her period and eases within days of it starting. - A diagnosis confirmed by tracking symptoms against her cycle for at least two cycles. - Getting her evaluated starts with a daily symptom log, then a doctor visit with those notes.