What is Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME)?

Did you know that PMDD is not the only premenstrual disorder? There is another premenstrual disorder referred to as Premenstrual Exacerbation. In today's episode I explain the differences between PMDD and PME. I also explain what PME is and why some women think they have PMDD when they likely have PME. Enjoy!Take Aways-Overview of the menstrual cycle-"The rise and fall of hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, contribute to symptoms in premenstrual disorders, PMD, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder and premenstrual exacerbation of existing symptoms." -PMDD Treatment Options Ebook-PMDD is recognized as a disorder by the medical community.-PME is not recognized as a disorder by the medical community, but is being studied. -With PMDD, you do not have symptoms during the follicular phase of your menstrual cycle.-With PME, symptoms of your existing condition will remain at their usual level during the follicular phase of your menstrual cycle.-During the luteal phase with PMDD your symptoms will be present.-During the luteal phase with PME the symptoms of your existing condition worsen. -PMDs are "cyclical neuroendocrine disorders."-Some conditions that can be exacerbated premenstrually are eating disorders, major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, suicidality, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, alcohol use disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.Resources Used and MentionedIAPMD Symptom TrackerPMDD Treatment Options Ebook (by IAPMD)IAPMD PMD Self Screen and Bitesize Overview of PMDD and PMEHave you ever wanted to be part of a smaller pmdd support group? Now is your chance! We start October 6th, 2026. Listen to episode #110 for details and join here: https://heidibradfordcoaching.com/group/We'll focus on 4 areas of growth in the context of living well with pmdd. These areas are: intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual. Beyond that we will tackle any and all questions and problems you are currently having. We'll share wins too! Please sign up here: https://heidibradfordcoaching.com/group/Take AwaysWeekly live coaching over zoomLife coaching exercises done while on the callOctober 2026 through January 2027Tuesdays at 10 am PT / 11 am MT / 12 pm CT / 1 pm ET Private online communityWant more support? ❤️Click here to talk with me. I'm currently offering a free 20 minute consultation call to help you get clear on where you are and how to get to a better place. Free resources:Heidi's websiteHeidi's YouTubeMusic Music- Island Breeze by Surf House Productions | https://surf-house-productions.band...