1. Take the PMDD Quiz!
2. A Visual Guide to PMS Slideshow

Medical Author:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Medical Editor:

Mary Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP

Mary Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP

Mary D. Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP is the Chair of the Department of Medicine at Michigan State University. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt Medical School, and completed her residency in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Infectious Diseases at Indiana University.

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Taking a medical history and performing a physical examination are the first steps in the diagnosis of PMDD. While there are no specific tests or physical findings that can establish the diagnosis, it is important to rule out other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms. Since many of the symptoms of PMDD are fairly nonspecific, a number of other conditions, including pregnancy, may be responsible for a woman's symptoms. Blood tests may be ordered to help rule out other conditions that may mimic PMDD.

In order to diagnose PMDD, it must be shown that the symptoms are directly related to the menstrual cycle. To do this, women are usually asked to complete a symptom chart or calendar and record their symptoms each day for a given length of time. The symptoms can then be correlated with the menstrual cycle and onset of the menstrual period.

Must Read Articles Related to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Dehydration in Adults Dehydration occurs when the loss of body fluids (mostly water), exceeds the amount that is taken in. Causes of dehydration include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, di...learn more >>

Menstrual Pain Menstrual cramps are either classified as primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) in which there is no anatomical cause for the pain. Secondary dysmenorrhea...learn more >>

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) occurs during the first two weeks before a woman begins her menstrual cycle. Symptoms of PMS include mood and behavioral changes and...learn more >>

See the Entire Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Topic Guide »