Diagnosing PMS vs PMDD and Getting a Diagnosis: How PMS and PMDD Are Actually Diagnosed, and What Cycle Mapping Adds

There's no blood test for PMS or PMDD — so how do you actually get diagnosed? In this episode, Dr Georgina Standen walks through the real diagnostic process, and introduces cycle mapping, a tool that goes far beyond simply tracking your period.In this episode:Why diagnosis relies on daily tracking rather than a single test — and why two full cycles mattersThe screening tools and diagnostic criteria doctors actually use (PSST, DRSP, DSM-5)What gets ruled out along the way, and whyWhat cycle mapping is, and how it goes beyond period-tracking to reveal how your hormones and symptoms move togetherWhy regular periods don't always mean regular ovulationWho cycle mapping is especially useful for — including women without regular periods to track againstMentioned in this episode:Belle app: https://bellehealth.co/Flo app: https://app.flo.health/DRSP via ROCG (appendix III): https://www.rcog.org.uk/guidance/browse-all-guidance/green-top-guidelines/premenstrual-syndrome-management-green-top-guideline-no-48/Mira hormone monitor (up to 30% off with SIRONAHEALTH): https://shop.miracare.com/products/fertility-max-starter-kit?variant=45163642224933Sirona Health PMS/PMDD page: sironahealth.co.uk/pmsA full transcript of this episode is available above.Sirona Health Podcast is hosted by Dr Georgina Standen, GP and founder of Sirona Health (sironahealth.co.uk), a specialist women's health practice covering menopause, PMS/PMDD and teen health. Book a consultation at sironahealth.co.uk.This podcast is for general information only and doesn't replace individual medical advice — please speak to your GP or a specialist about your own symptoms. If you're struggling, please reach out for support.