Healing From PMDD—Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder—Is Possible

By: Julie Sarton, PT, DPT, WCS

Healing from PMDD is possible. I am living proof.

Hi! Julie Sarton here! I have been a pelvic floor physical therapist for the last 20 years & am the founder of @pelvichealing and Sarton Physical Therapy (a pelvic floor specialty practice in Orange County CA). I feel so fortunate to have found my life’s calling & get to do what I love every day; however, a year ago, I realized if I wanted to continue down this path of helping others, it was time for this wounded healer to start healing herself. So I did just that - I dove into my own journey to tackle issues that have plagued me over the years. While there were multiple challenges to go after, one stood out above the rest- one that rocked my world for way too long…PMDD.

What is PMDD?

PMDD—premenstrual dysphoric disorder—is a severe form of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). While PMS is no walk in the park, the symptoms of PMDD are severe and debilitating. PMDD involves a set of physical and psychological symptoms that affect daily living and influence’s one’s mental wellbeing. It is a condition that necessitates treatment when it occurs, however, I would venture to guess that most women with go undiagnosed and without answers like I did for years.

Symptoms of PMDD can include:

irritability, anger, nervousness, depression & anxiety
extreme sadness, crying & emotional sensitivity
feeling overwhelmed or out of control
fatigue (a big one of mine)
insomnia
difficulty concentrating
heart palpitations
abdominal bloating, increased appetite and gastrointestinal upset
painful menses
decreased libido
heightened sensitivity
breast tenderness
bloating

According to the research, between 20-40% of women experience PMS while 3-8% experience PMDD. Thankfully, with some amazing help, I have learned how to navigate and heal from PMDD. While not perfect, I am having better periods than ever before. If you suffer with PMDD, know you have much more control over your symptoms than you realize. While my journey isn’t over yet, it feels amazing to have come so far. Know I am here to help you if you are a fellow PMDD sufferer. Stay tuned as I dive into some essential things to do on my next post if this is your journey, too.

We want to encourage you to get evaluated by one of our outstanding physical therapists, and regain control of your life. Pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, back pain, tailbone pain—you name it—these conditions do not have to control your life. There is hope. Call us today to book an appointment for 1 of our 3 Southern California locations, or inquire about a virtual, online treatment session.

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