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PMS vs PMDD: Understanding the Difference and How Acupuncture Can Help

Updated: 3 days ago



Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you find the right support
Understanding the signs and symptoms can help you find the right support

Most women experience some degree of premenstrual symptoms, but for some, those symptoms become debilitating—impacting work, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Two terms often used in this space are PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). While they may seem similar, the difference between them is significant. Chinese Medicine , including acupuncture, offers natural and evidence-supported ways to support women through both.


PMS vs. PMDD: What is the Difference?


PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) are hormone-related mood disorders, and the onset, severity of symptoms, and their impact on quality of life are key distinguishing factors.


Research shows that PMDD is not due to abnormal hormone levels, but to an increased sensitivity in the brain to normal hormonal fluctuations—especially those of estrogen and progesterone in the luteal phase. These hormonal shifts influence serotonin function, including its production and reuptake. In people with PMDD, this leads to heightened emotional and physical symptoms.


Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS affects up to 75% of menstruating women and refers to a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and physical symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (about 5-10 days before menstruation).


Common PMS symptoms include:

  • Bloating

  • Irritability

  • Fatigue

  • Mood swings

  • Breast tenderness

  • Changes in appetite and bowel movements


Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD, on the other hand, is a severe, often disabling form of PMS, affecting about 3–8% of women. It’s recognised as a psychiatric disorder in the DSM-5. The onset of PMDD can be from ovulation and experience symptoms everyday in the lead up to your menstrual bleed, significantly impacting the functioning of day-to-day tasks and quality of life.


PMDD symptoms are more severe and debilitating:

  • Severe mood changes including depression, anxiety, rage, and even suicidal thoughts

  • Feelings of hopelessness

  • Fatigue or low energy

  • Breast tenderness

  • Sleep disorders

  • Change in appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating and focusing

  • Headaches or migraines


Research shows that autistic women are up to six times more likely to experience PMDD than neurotypical women.¹ This may be due to increased sensory sensitivities, hormonal fluctuations, and challenges with emotional regulation—all of which can be amplified in PMDD.



How Can Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Help?


Chinese Medicine views PMS and PMDD as manifestations of imbalances in the body—often involving stagnation of Qi and Blood, Liver Qi disharmony, and underlying deficiencies in Yin or Blood. Rather than suppressing symptoms, acupuncture and herbal medicine aim to restore balance.



Here is how Chinese Medicine can support you:


1. Regulates Hormonal Fluctuations

Acupuncture has been shown to influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, helping regulate oestrogen and progesterone levels.² This can reduce the hormonal rollercoaster that leads to PMS and PMDD symptoms.


2. Supports Nervous System

Acupuncture increases the release of endorphins and serotonin, natural mood stabilisers. Studies have shown acupuncture to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and irritability—core features of PMDD.³


 3. Moves Stagnant Qi

In TCM, many PMS/PMDD symptoms are linked to Liver Qi stagnation—especially mood swings, breast tenderness, and irritability. Acupuncture helps “move” this Qi, promoting better emotional and physical flow.


4. Reduces Inflammation & Pain

Cramping, bloating, and headaches? Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects and can increase blood flow, reducing pain and fluid retention.


What Does the Research Say?


  • A 2018 meta-analysis found acupuncture significantly reduced PMS symptoms compared to sham or no treatment.⁴

  • A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that women with PMDD showed improvement in mood, sleep, and overall quality of life with regular acupuncture sessions.⁵

  • Clinical trials support that Chinese herbal medicine can help reduce both emotional and physical symptoms of PMS.⁶



Final Thoughts


Whether you're dealing with the monthly challenges of PMS or the overwhelming intensity of PMDD, you're not alone—and you don't have to "just live with it." At Melbourne Reproductive Acupuncture, we take a holistic, evidence-based approach to menstrual health. Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and tailored support, we aim to help every woman feel more in tune with her cycle—not ruled by it.



Want to know how we can support you personally? Book a consult or treatment session today—we’d love to help you.







Written by Joanne Sharkey

BApSci(ChinMed) BApSci(HumBiol)

AHPRA and AACMA



References:

  1. Lever, A. G., & Geurts, H. M. (2016). Psychiatric Co-occurring Symptoms and Disorders in Women with Autism or High Autistic Traits. Molecular Autism, 7(1), 1–14.

  2. Stener-Victorin, E., et al. (2013). Acupuncture and hormones in women: a review of the literature. American Journal of Physiology.

  3. Kim, S. Y., et al. (2011). Acupuncture for premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

  4. Lim, S. (2018). Acupuncture for PMS: A Meta-Analysis. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research.

  5. Chen, L., et al. (2021). Effects of Acupuncture on PMDD: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Frontiers in Psychiatry.

  6. Zhu, X., et al. (2008). Chinese herbal medicine for PMS. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

 
 
 

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