This paper explains that women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) complain of irritability, anger, tension, marked
depressed mood, mood lability, lethargy, sleep disturbance, limited concentration and many physical symptoms to such a degree of severity that their quality-of-life is seriously compromised. The author points out that inhibitors of serotonin reuptake,
fluoxetine (Sarafem), may be an effective therapy. The paper states that PMS and PMDD are far more common in a woman's later years of fertility because these syndromes are caused by the lower
estrogen levels and higher progesterone levels found more commonly in the latter half of a woman's reproductive life. Table of Contents Introduction History and Background of PMS/PMDD History Inheritance and Relationship to Other Disorders Cultural Aspects The American Medical Association's Point of View Conclusion