Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Premenstrual Dysphoria

The recent inclusion of research diagnostic criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in the DSM-IV recognises the fact that some women in their reproductive years have extremely distressing emotional and behavioural symptoms premenstrually. Through the use of these criteria, PMDD can be differentiated from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) which has milder physical symptoms, i.e. breast tenderness, bloating, headache and minor mood changes. PMDD can also be differentiated from premenstrual exacerbation of a current psychiatric disorder or medical condition, although some women may meet criteria for a dual diagnosis.