PMDD: Could Severe PMS Be a Depressive Disorder? Understanding PMDD with Britney Marsden

In our 10th episode, “The PMDD Chick” Britney Marsden and I discuss Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS that affects many women. Britney shares her personal journey with PMDD, including the emotional and physical symptoms, the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin, and the importance of tracking symptoms for diagnosis. We explore the connection between trauma and PMDD, the complexities of women's health - particularly focusing on autoimmune disorders and hormonal imbalances - and the impact of community support. We also discuss the role of genetics, particularly the MTHFR mutation. Our conversation highlights lifestyle changes that can help manage conditions like PMDD, such as diet, exercise, and stress management as well as mindset, the role of supplements and nutritional deficiencies. Britney emphasizes the significance of self-advocacy and education in managing PMDD, as well as the importance of blood work for a proper diagnosis. In closing, Britney shares her available resources, including a free PMDD support program and personalized consultations, to empower women in their journey with PMDD.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:00] Meet Brittany: Her journey to becoming "The PMDD Chick."
• [02:41] What is PMDD?
• [04:15] How PMDD affects mood, relationships, and self-identity.
• [07:07] Why PMDD is listed as a depressive disorder in the DSM-5.
• [10:10] The role of serotonin, GABA, and glutamate
• [14:46] Brittany’s personal story: Suicide attempts, misdiagnoses, and finding hope.
• [19:54] The impact of MTHFR, epigenetics, and trauma.
• [27:36] Unpacking the connection between stored trauma and chronic health issues.
• [30:05] The importance of vulnerability and community for women with PMDD.
• [32:15] PCOS, endometriosis, and histamine intolerance
• [36:52] Why symptom tracking and nervous system regulation matter
• [43:47] The role of diet, exercise, and stress management
• [50:17] Slowing down: How intentional living creates lasting change.
• [53:35] Shifting from “I can’t” to “I can.”
• [57:39] Iron, vitamin D, magnesium, iodine and other supplemental support

RESOURCES

• Britney Marsden’s Her Health Confessions Podcast
• The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Dirty Genes by Ben Lynch
• PMDD: 5 Interwoven Pieces by Marlene Freeman

About Host Spencer Moore:

Spencer Moore, founder of The Hairy Chin, is a passionate advocate for patient education, female empowerment, and authentic patient stories that inspire and inform women on their health and wellness journeys. She shares practical advocacy skills, authentic patient stories, and conversations with medical professionals that motivate and guide women navigating their health, making her a trusted voice in women's wellness.

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