Why Do Some Women Get Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?
The cause of PMDD is unknown at this time. Research suggests that the cause of PMDD may be related to hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle. Additional research suggests some similarity to that of certain mood disorders with the brain’s ability to properly regulate key neurochemicals, such as serotonin. However, no definitive research has been conducted that has shown a single cause for premsenstrual dysphoric disorder. A woman may be more likely to suffer from PMDD if she has had a major depressive disorder or has bipolar disorder, or if someone in her family has suffered from one of these conditions. It’s possible that a woman with major depression and PMDD may find her symptoms ease somewhat during her period, but they won’t go away.
