PMDD Natural Treatment: Finding Relief Without Medication

Hello, my name is Danielle and I was diagnosed with PMDD back in 2010. My experiences have varied over the years; and I feel as I have gotten older they have calmed a bit, or maybe I have just learned to manage them better.

My PMDD symptoms have taken a major toll on my relationships both personal and professional. Surprisingly, I have managed to keep the same partner for the last 18 years. We have been able to maintain our connection through a lot of open communication and understanding from his side.

I am turning 40 in May, and the symptoms I still struggle with today are depression, anxiety, major cravings and terrible mood swings. I feel a wave of anger take over my body, my temperature rises and I can easily snap. The other side of this tends to be the overwhelming feeling of despair. I cry at the drop of a hat, no matter where I am. I tend to experience a lot of anticipatory grief, ie. the thought of losing a parent or a pet. I also feel disconnected from the people and hobbies I typically love. I just feel like I ‘don’t care’ what happens during the week before my period.

My cramps and lower back pain have gotten better with age, but I used to be bed ridden with my hot water bottle, and would waste all my vacation time to get through my period. It was awful.

I have lost friendships due to my pmdd, walked of jobs, and have had to learn to stop, breathe and control my attitude over time. It has been a major struggle.

One of the hardest things is when you try telling a female coworker and they say “ oh yah pms I get that too, take an advil” it doesn’t work that way. One of the biggest struggles is getting people to understand, and feeling alone; when you are already feeling isolated.

Now to cope, I make my partner aware on the calendar when these symptoms will begin and he knows to give me space but also be supportive so I dont feel abandoned, and isolated. It is an art he has learned to master over time. I also work from home 90% of the time now and can use my hot water bottle here and work from my laptop on the couch which is a blessing. Nature walks, taking pictures or in the woods with my dogs, or by the water is something that lifts me up during these hard times.

My doctor has offered me antidepressants but I declined as I wanted a more natural approach. This is what worked for me.

I feel for anyone suffering pmdd and I am thankful to share my story so we can bring awareness to this issue.

Thank you,
Danielle.