Periods and PMS are typically quite miserable regardless of who you are. However, for some women, period woes are taken to the next level. These women find themselves periodically burdened with intense depression and even suicidal thoughts.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, affects up to 1 in 10 menstruating women, but thanks to the patriarchal history of medicine, it hasn’t been taken all that seriously. If any ladies find that this resonates with them, you are not being dramatic! The effects of PMDD are grounded in hormonal science.

Dr. Bitner chimes in with important information in this Today article with an explanation on how estrogen levels impact serotonin, and how fluctuations can lead to anxiety and depression. Read her sentiments on this issue that impacts so many women!