This study compares the effects of PMS/PMDD on an individual’s quality of life, ability to work, and social functionality. To do so, the authors have not only looked into previous research, but also analyzed the factors by which the results may have been found; they recognize that certain works have found a prevalence of 50-80% of women experiencing PMS symptoms ranging from mild to severe life impairment. However, only 3-8% of women have been diagnosed with PMS/PMDD. After looking into the diagnostic criteria, they recognize that the criteria may limit the amount of people diagnosed, despite the severity of their symptoms. Additionally, they concluded that those with PMDD experienced significant impairment to their work and housework abilities and social adjustment, alongside a significantly decreased quality of life. They propose that significantly more research needs to be done in order to fully understand the burden of PMDD and dedicate treatments to PMDD rather than the worsened or concurrent disorders, such as anxiety or depression. 

Conclusions of the Study

Halbreich, U., Borenstein, J., Pearlstein, T., & Kahn, L. S. (2003). The prevalence, impairment, impact, and burden of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMS/PMDD). Psychoneuroendocrinology, 28, 1-23.

Rutgers University

References for PMDD

Inapuri, M., Kethar, J., & Appavu, R. (2023). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Patterns, Causes, and Effects. Journal of Student Research, 12(3).

PMDD Patterns, Causes, and Effects

The Prevalence, Impairment, Impact, and Burden of PMS/PMDD

Halbreich, U. (2008). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and initial oral contraceptives for the treatment of PMDD: effective but not enough. CNS spectrums, 13(7), 566-572.

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