A deeper look at pre-menstrual mood disorders

Women of the Well | Holistic Women’s Health and Wellness

Welcome to 2025!

As we kick off the New Year, we’re diving into a topic that affects so many women but is often misunderstood – premenstrual mood disorders like PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) and PME (premenstrual exacerbation of an underlying mental health condition).

In this episode of Women of the Well, Dr Peta, Dr Thea, and Sam explore what’s really behind premenstrual mood issues and how we can better support ourselves in this often-challenging phase of the menstrual cycle.

🎧 Listen now to discover:

🌿 What’s happening in the brain and body during the luteal phase – and why some women experience heightened sensitivity to hormonal changes.

🌿 The connection between PMDD, trauma, and nervous system dysregulation – and why environment matters just as much as biology.

🌿 Why societal expectations and the “need to perform” can make symptoms worse – and how breaking the stigma around cyclic living can help.

🌿 Simple strategies for self-care, including:

• Nutrition tips for stabilising blood sugar and supporting hormonal balance.
• Lifestyle changes like slowing down, spending time in nature, and creating space for rest.
• Practical tools for nervous system regulation, from breathwork to cold water therapy.

🌿 A compassionate perspective on treatment options – from supplements and lifestyle adjustments to bioidentical hormones and, in rare cases, medical interventions.

Why this episode matters:

The New Year is a time for reflection and intention-setting, and this conversation is a powerful reminder to prioritise self-care, listen to your body, and ask for help when needed.
Whether you’re navigating PMDD, PME, or simply feeling the strain of life’s demands, this episode offers practical tools and insights to help you feel more grounded and connected.

Recommended Resources:

• 📖 Healing Pelvic Pain by Dr Peta Wright – A comprehensive guide to understanding and managing pelvic pain.
• 🎙️ Episode 15 of Women of the Well – The Autumn + Winter of Your Menstrual Cycle (Luteal and Menstruation phases).
• 💻 IAPMD.org – Information on premenstrual mood disorders.
• 📖 Anchored by Deb Dana – A guide to nervous system regulation.
• 💻 Jessica Maguire’s Vagus Nerve Masterclass – Practical tools for nervous system health.

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DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.