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Research led by Dr Sophie Hodgetts in our Department of Psychology has uncovered the hidden impacts of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) on quality of life and relationships.
PMDD is a severe cyclical, hormone-based mood disorder, which affects between 2-5%* of people who menstruate across the world.
The groundbreaking study, undertaken with support of the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD), looked at the toll on those living with the condition, and their partners, which until now had been relatively unknown.
Quality of life and relationships
The study involving over 400 individuals revealed that participants with PMDD reported lower quality of life and relationships.
The findings highlighted various challenges, including physical, psychological, social, and environmental aspects of life.
PMDD sufferers, which accounted for over 50% of respondents (216), also expressed a lower sense of intimacy, trust and passion within their relationships.
Impacts on partners
The findings were echoed by the partners of sufferers too, who indicated wide-ranging impacts on their quality of life and relationships.
The study compared the responses of 92 partners of PMDD sufferers, against 59 partners of people in a relationship with someone who has a menstrual cycle but doesn't have PMDD.
Partners of individuals with PMDD expressed feelings of high stress, a diminished sense of personal growth and worth, difficulties or inabilities within their caregiving roles, and a general sense of feeling unsupported.
They also reported similar levels of dissatisfaction within their relationships to those living with the condition. However, both sufferers and partners agreed 'love' and 'commitment' remained unaffected.
What is PMDD?
PMDD is often mistaken for PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), but the two conditions are vastly different in severity and impact.
While PMS can cause mild mood changes, irritability, and physical discomfort before a period, PMDD goes far beyond that, leading to severe mood disturbances, intense anxiety, depression, rage, and even suicidal thoughts.
These symptoms occur in the luteal phase (the one to two weeks before menstruation) and typically disappear shortly after the period begins.
Future research
These findings suggest that more and future clinical research should aim to develop PMDD-specific interventions that support both the person with PMDD and their partner.
Dr Hodgetts continuing work with IAPMD aims to delve deeper into the aspects of relationships affected by PMDD.
Future research plans include a follow-up study involving interviews and focus groups with PMDD sufferers and their loved ones, to better identify areas for intervention and inform the development of supportive strategies.
Additionally, the collaboration is exploring the lived experiences of undergoing treatment for PMDD and investigating the intersection of PMDD and neurodivergence.
