Why Do I Feel So Different Before My Period? Part 1 of PMS vs PMDD

Why do some women feel bloated, emotional, or irritable before their period, while others feel like they become a completely different person? In this episode of Science Savvy Podcast, Professor Rossella Nappi (gynecologist, endocrinologist, and sexologist) breaks down the crucial difference between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and why PMDD is far more than “just bad PMS.” Together, we explore what is really happening in the brain and body, from altered sensitivity to normal hormonal changes to the roles of serotonin, GABA, stress, trauma, and even the gut-brain axis.

Professor Nappi also explains how PMDD is diagnosed, why symptom tracking is important for those seeking help from a physician, as well as the treatments that can actually help (from natural lifestyle changes to hormonal contraception and intermittent use of antidepressants). Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that severe premenstrual symptoms are real, treatable, and never something women should have to just “put up with.”

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you experience severe mood symptoms, thoughts of self-harm, or symptoms that interfere with daily life, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional or seek urgent support.

As this was an interview, we do not have a "formal" bibliography. However, a list of references is available upon request (just leave a comment)!