PMDD is something that often goes undiagnosed, dismissed, or misunderstood — especially after having children. But for many, including this therapist and mother, the story of PMDD started long before kids ever entered the picture.
“I suffered with PMDD the moment I got my period at 12 years old. For years and years of my life, I battled debilitating depression, panic, anxiety, irritability, aggression, and self-loathing. On top of that, there was extreme physical bloating, cravings, swelling — a tidal wave of symptoms that would consume two weeks of every month, without fail.”
It’s hard to overstate just how life-altering that kind of cycle can be. Imagine living half your life under the weight of what feels like emotional chaos, only to have it vanish the moment your period arrives. That was her reality. Month after month. Year after year.
Pregnancy — ironically — offered a strange kind of sanctuary.
“I had two pregnancies, and they were so magical. They gave me complete emotional relief. It was the one time I felt emotionally free from PMDD.”
But postpartum life brings its own emotional terrain, and for many, PMDD returns — sometimes even more aggressively.
That fear of its return? It’s real.
“My PMDD returned with a vengeance after my first pregnancy. I was terrified it would happen again after my second.”
This time, though, something was different.
This time, she had tools. This time, she had therapy.
EMDR therapy, to be specific.
And even though she’s a therapist herself — trained and practicing in EMDR — she chose to step into the role of client and do the deeper work for herself.
“I started EMDR therapy during my second pregnancy and continued into postpartum. I was so scared of my symptoms returning. The first period I had postpartum was rough, and I thought, ‘Here we go again.’ But then something shifted.”
“The next cycle? The symptoms were lighter. And the next? Even less. Until one day… they were just gone.”
There’s no overnight miracle here. Just slow, consistent healing. A few steps forward, maybe a step back. But ultimately, the most important part of this story is that PMDD didn’t have the final say.
For anyone who’s navigating PMDD, especially in the wake of pregnancy or childbirth, this story offers something real — not just hope, but a pathway.
Because PMDD isn’t just hormonal. It’s psychological. Emotional. Nervous system-deep. And treatments like EMDR therapy are beginning to show us just how much healing is possible when we address the underlying trauma, stress, and emotional overwhelm locked inside the body.
“I’m still tracking my cycles. I’m still paying attention. But I’m no longer bracing myself for two weeks of pain. EMDR gave me space to process the things I didn’t even know were linked to my symptoms. And somehow, slowly, it all got lighter.”
If you’re living with PMDD, especially postpartum or after a big life change, you’re not alone. There is help. There is support. And with the right tools — therapy, community, and compassionate care — healing is absolutely possible.
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we extend a warm welcome to individuals seeking support for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). We understand the unique challenges of this condition, and our compassionate team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalised counselling services. Our mission is to empower lives through understanding and support, fostering a sense of hope for a brighter future.
About PMDD
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome that affects a small percentage of individuals with menstrual cycles. It goes beyond the typical mood swings and physical discomfort associated with PMS, causing significant disruptions in daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we recognise the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional dimensions of PMDD.
Our Approach to working with PMDD
- Holistic Care
Our approach to wellness is holistic, acknowledging that PMDD impacts both the physical and emotional aspects of an individual’s life. By adopting a comprehensive approach, our counsellors can tailor their services to meet the diverse needs of our clients, ensuring a well-rounded and effective therapeutic experience.
- Personalised Counselling
Understanding that each person’s journey with PMDD is unique, our counsellors work collaboratively with clients to develop personalised treatment plans. These plans are designed to address specific challenges, enhance coping mechanisms, and improve overall mental well-being. We provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their emotions and develop strategies for managing PMDD-related difficulties.
- Education and Awareness
In addition to providing counselling services, we are committed to raising awareness about PMDD. We aim to empower individuals, their families, and the community through educational resources and support groups to better understand this often misunderstood condition. By fostering understanding, we hope to reduce stigma and promote empathy.
PMDD in 2025: The Latest Insights
Research in 2025 continues to show just how disruptive PMDD can be:
- Around 3–8% of menstruating individuals live with PMDD worldwide.
- A PLOS ONE study published in April 2025 found that PMDD significantly reduces quality of life — not only for those affected, but also for their partners. Emotional, social, and physical wellbeing were all impacted.
- Women with ADHD are at a particularly high risk. Findings released in July 2025 confirmed they are 3–4 times more likely to experience PMDD, especially when depression or anxiety are also present.
- Many people still face years of delay before diagnosis, leaving symptoms untreated and misunderstood.
These figures highlight why awareness, timely diagnosis, and access to treatment matter so deeply.
Unlock 50% OFF the PMDD Ebook + Free Consultation
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we believe in supporting you from the very first step. That’s why we’re offering a FREE 15-minute consultation with one of our experienced counsellors — no obligation, just compassionate listening and advice.
When you book your consultation, you’ll also receive 50% OFF our ebook: PMDD Uncovered – Understanding the Storm Within.
📘 PMDD Uncovered is written by Ian Stockbridge, Senior Accredited Counsellor and founder of Hope Therapy & Counselling Services. With expertise in CBT, Mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, Ian combines professional knowledge with genuine compassion.
The book includes:
- Clear insights into what PMDD really is — and how it differs from PMS
- Practical strategies for managing mood swings, anxiety, and physical symptoms
- Guidance on seeking the right diagnosis and treatment
- Real-life stories to remind you you’re not alone
- Tools to support your emotional wellbeing and daily life
💜 Prefer to buy the book without the consultation? You can purchase it directly for £9.99 here.