It affects an estimated 3% to 8% of women of reproductive age globally.
While many women (up to 75%) experience some form of premenstrual symptoms (PMS) like bloating, mood swings, or irritability, only a small subset meets the criteria for PMDD.
The prevalence estimates differ slightly depending on:
- Diagnostic criteria used (DSM-5 vs. older versions).
- Whether women are self-reporting or undergoing clinical assessment.
- Whether prospective daily symptom tracking is used (the gold standard).
- Cultural and regional differences in awareness and mental health reporting.
Population examples
- U.S. studies generally report rates between 3%–6% of menstruating women.
- International samples, including European and Asian countries, show similar rates, though underdiagnosis is common due to a lack of awareness.
PMDD often goes underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed since it’s frequently mistaken for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or just PMS.
Women may suffer for years before getting a proper diagnosis.
–> My complete premenstrual dysphoric disorder guide can be found here.
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