The PMDD Project is the UK’s first charity dedicated to supporting people impacted by PMDD. We strive to raise awareness, provide support, and support research into PMDD, with the ultimate goal of improving the lives of individuals affected by this debilitating condition. Read on to see who we are, what we do and how we are making a difference in the PMDD Community.
What is PMDD?
PMDD is recognised as a legitimate medical condition and can be classed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 depending on severity and frequency of symptoms. Unfortunately, many people spend years misdiagnosed with PMS, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders before the cyclical pattern is identified.
On average, it currently takes 12 to 20 years to receive an accurate diagnosis of PMDD.
(FTWW)
PMDD is a heightened, abnormal sensitivity to the natural, normal hormonal changes that occur during every cycle. For those affected, symptoms flare during the luteal phase (the one to two weeks before menstruation) and typically ease shortly after bleeding begins.
Symptoms of PMDD
PMDD can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
Current studies suggest that approximately:
(University of the West of Scotland)
For many, it can feel like becoming a different person each month. Relationships suffer. Work and/or studying feels impossible. Confidence disappears. Then the “fog lifts”, only for the cycle to repeat again.
Diagnosis
When seeking a formal diagnosis of PMDD, we recommend the following steps be taken before seeing a GP:
- Track and record symptoms alongside dates of the menstrual cycle for at least 2-3 months. You can use an app or a journal.
- Complete a DSM-5 form. If you have a minimum score of five out of eleven, record your score and/or download, print and keep safe.
- Take the above to a GP appointment. They may refer you to a Gynaecologist, Endocrinologist, Psychological support, or all of the above.
- If you need further support, advice or advocacy, please contact us.
(Our advice is informed by our Clinical Advisory board, NICE, NAPS and Mind).
For more information, please see our free, downloadable resource HERE.
Treatment
Treatment options vary depending on multiple factors, including severity and frequency of symptoms, other medications, medical history and family planning.
For more information on various treatments available, you can download our free resource HERE.
The PMDD PROJECT – Breaking the barriers of PMMD, one cycle at a time.
Some of the other ways we are making a difference:
We are training medical professionals and students, educators, employers, and community leaders across the UK to improve awareness, knowledge, best practice and policy.
We provide direct and indirect support to those directly affected by PMDD via Peer led support groups, events, advice, signposting and more.
We seek meaningful change via local and national government, including petitions.
We support ongoing research.
Upcoming Events:
- PMDD Awareness Workshop
Date: Wednesday 22nd April 2026
Time: 3pm
Workshop Lead: Kim Cormack
Location: Blue Sky Room, Grounded Café – Selly Oak
Link to Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984507315803?aff=oddtdtcreator
For more information:
Email us: general@thepmddproject.org
We are on:
We have a Podcast, The Monthly Truth.
If you are in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please seek urgent support via your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services.
You deserve answers. You deserve support. And you deserve to feel like yourself all month long.