The Medicalization of Women's Moods: Premenstural Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Question 1

PMS

Answer 1

Cyclic recurrence of certain changes in behavior, mood, and body beginning in the week leading to menstruation.

Question 2

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Answer 2

Depressive disorder requiring 5 or more symptoms that disappear within a few days of menstruation

Question 3

Prozac/Sarafem

Answer 3

Repackaged and marketed as a treatment for PMDD

Question 4

Summary

Answer 4

Thus, we encourage women to resist the medicalization of their moods–unless their premenstrual symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily functioning. If not, they should engage in self-care, treat symptoms as needed (e.g., water pills, aspirin), and not refer to themselves as having PMS. We should all try to develop more positive attitudes toward menstruation and our bodies in general, and we should never let anyone dismiss a woman’s feelings as merely “hormonal”.