# PMDD: Acknowledging the Struggle and Seeking Solutions
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Understanding PMDD
In June 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) in its new ICD-11 classification system. This condition was defined as a hormonal disorder rather than a mental health issue. For women like me who endure this challenging condition, this acknowledgment was groundbreaking. Finally, the medical community was recognizing our plight, paving the way for genuine research and professional interest, rather than the sporadic articles in women’s magazines. We felt hope for tangible assistance.
However, four months later, the situation remains largely unchanged, which is frankly unacceptable.
The Perception of PMDD
PMDD occasionally appears in health news as an oddity, something to marvel at. It’s astonishing how a woman's emotional state can drastically shift due to hormonal fluctuations. During these episodes, she might find herself acting erratically, damaging her relationships, binge eating, and sleeping excessively—sometimes for up to fourteen hours. This chaotic behavior often coincides with her most fertile period, as if driven by an instinctual need to find a mate.
At first glance, this might seem amusing or bizarre. But when you realize that approximately five percent of women of reproductive age globally experience this, it becomes evident that we're facing an epidemic.
Causes of PMDD
The exact origins of PMDD remain unclear, but two predominant theories exist. One suggests that hormonal imbalances or heightened sensitivity to natural hormonal changes are to blame. The other theory, which is more grassroots in nature, proposes that PMDD may be an inflammatory response. Many in the PMDD community report symptom relief by eliminating sugar, dairy, or wheat from their diets.
The WHO's acknowledgment of PMDD was a significant step for all affected by this condition. We now know it exists, and we are not losing our sanity. Yet, it’s crucial to push forward toward effective treatments.
The Need for a Cure
I empathize with feminist scientists who have criticized PMDD, arguing that mainstream science might be reinforcing outdated stereotypes about women. Their intentions are commendable. The link between hormones and women's health is complex and not fully understood. It’s important to distinguish PMDD from PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome); while PMS can disrupt a day, PMDD can dramatically alter a life.
Nonetheless, the urgency for effective treatment should take precedence over concerns about reinforcing negative stereotypes in the scientific community. Current treatments range from antidepressants to dietary changes. Unfortunately, PMDD sufferers often exchange remedies on forums like recipes, rather than addressing serious medical issues. We lack a straightforward solution—there’s no single medication that guarantees relief, and even surgical options like hysterectomies often fail to address PMDD effectively. We are navigating this journey largely on our own and urgently need scientific expertise to illuminate a path forward.
Community Support and Solidarity
Women affected by PMDD often refer to themselves as “wolves,” symbolizing our shared connection to the 30-day cycle that aligns with lunar phases. References to horror films such as “Ginger Snaps” and “The Exorcist” frequently arise, especially the iconic line from Father Merrin about resisting the demon. We are a community united by the need to demonstrate that we are not losing our grip on reality.
Doctors can either be our staunch allies or skeptics requiring convincing of our suffering. This feeling of isolation should not be our reality.
Let us come together, raise awareness, and advocate for the research and treatment that PMDD desperately needs.