Ora

What Deficiency Causes PMDD?

Published in Mental Health 2 mins read

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is primarily linked to a serotonin deficiency, which results from an abnormal brain reaction to normal hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. While the exact cause of PMDD is not fully known, this neurological response to fluctuating hormones is a key factor.

The Role of Serotonin in PMDD

Serotonin is a crucial neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a significant role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and emotional well-being. For individuals with PMDD, normal shifts in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that occur throughout the menstrual cycle can trigger an atypical response in the brain. This abnormal reaction can lead to a noticeable decrease in serotonin levels, contributing to the severe emotional and physical symptoms characteristic of PMDD.

Hormonal Influences on Brain Chemistry

It's important to understand that PMDD is not caused by abnormal levels of hormones themselves. Instead, it is the brain's heightened sensitivity and abnormal reaction to the normal cyclical changes in these hormones that is at play. This sensitivity disrupts the delicate balance of neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, leading to a functional deficiency. This deficiency impacts the brain's ability to manage mood and stress effectively, explaining the profound psychological symptoms experienced by those with PMDD.