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Methylation, the MTHFR Gene, and PMDD: What’s the Connection?
Could your genes and folate metabolism influence your premenstrual mood? New research suggests that the MTHFR gene — which affects how we process folate and regulate brain chemistry — may play a role in PMS and PMDD. Dr Georgina Standen explains what methylation is, what the latest studies show, and how to support healthy folate levels through diet and supplements.
When IBS Meets Hormones: How Menstruation, PMS & Menopause Impact Your Gut—and Why Personalised Care Matters
Many women notice their IBS worsens around their period, during PMS, or in perimenopause — yet few are told that hormones directly influence gut sensitivity and motility. In this article, we explore the science behind hormone-related IBS and explain how personalised, cycle-aware treatment can transform symptoms.
Vitex agnus-castus (Chasteberry) and PMS: Can Nature Support Your Hormonal Health?
Vitex agnus-castus (chasteberry) is one of the most researched herbal options for PMS and PMDD, helping to balance prolactin and support the natural rhythm of oestrogen and progesterone. In this article, Dr Georgina Standen explains how Vitex works, what the latest evidence shows, who it’s suitable for, and how to use it safely—alone or alongside conventional treatments—to support mood, cycle regularity and premenstrual wellbeing.
The Future of PMDD Treatment: tDCS, Brain Stimulation & the Nettle Device
A new class of treatment is emerging for PMDD that doesn’t involve hormones or standard antidepressants: non-invasive brain stimulation. This blog explains how tDCS works, why it’s being explored for PMDD, what the UK trial of the Nettle device is aiming to show, and what this could mean for women in the UK.
Antidepressants vs Hormone Treatment for PMS and PMDD: Breaking the Stigma
Many women accept hormone treatments for PMS and PMDD but hesitate to use antidepressants—even though SSRIs are proven effective. Learn why stigma persists, how this leads to under-treatment in PME, and what evidence-based options exist.
When Your Health Fluctuates with Your Cycle: Understanding Premenstrual Exacerbation
Many women notice their health feels different in the days before their period. For some, existing conditions like migraines, asthma, or depression become more intense—a phenomenon known as premenstrual exacerbation (PME). Unlike PMS or PMDD, PME doesn’t cause new symptoms, but it amplifies what’s already there. Understanding PME can help you take control of your health and manage symptoms more effectively.
Progesterone Sensitivity: When Your Hormones Own the Mood
Some women react strongly to progesterone, triggering mood swings, anxiety, or skin changes. Learn which progestins are best tolerated, with evidence-based advice from Dr Georgina Standen at Sirona Health.
Mast Cells, Histamine and Female Hormones: Why Some Women React Differently
If your skin flares up, your gut feels reactive, or you find yourself flushed, itchy, or anxious around your period or during perimenopause, you’re not imagining it. There’s growing evidence that female hormones can directly influence immune cells called mast cells, changing how much histamine your body releases. These hormone–immune interactions may explain why some women experience cyclical symptoms that cross several systems — skin, digestion, mood, and energy — yet have never been fully explained by hormones alone.
What Is “Reproductive Depression”?
Many women notice that their mood changes around times of hormonal fluctuation — before a period, after having a baby, or during the perimenopause. For some, these changes are mild; for others, they can be life-altering. This pattern is increasingly recognised as a distinct form of depression known as reproductive depression. Here, I explain what that means, why hormones can influence the brain so profoundly, and how this understanding is helping us shape more effective, personalised treatments.
The Future of PMDD Treatment: Neuroactive Steroids
New research is changing how we understand and treat PMDD. Instead of suppressing hormones, emerging treatments known as neuroactive steroids work by calming the brain’s response to hormonal change. Here, Dr Georgina Standen explains how brexanolone and zuranolone work, what current evidence shows, and what this could mean for women in the UK.
The Best Birth Control Pills for PMS and PMDD (and Which to Avoid)
Can the pill help PMS or PMDD? For many women, yes — but the type, dose, and how you take it all matter. Dr Georgina Standen explains which contraceptive pills may improve premenstrual symptoms, which can make them worse, and how to choose the right approach for you.
Medication Options for PMS and PMDD
Struggling with PMS or PMDD? Dr Georgina Standen explores all the effective treatments — from SSRIs and SNRIs to HRT, contraceptive pills, GnRH analogues, and more — with a focus on personalised, evidence-based care.
Natural and Lifestyle Treatments for PMS and PMDD
Lifestyle and natural treatments can significantly reduce PMS and PMDD symptoms. From exercise and diet to supplements, herbs, and CBT, explore evidence-based strategies that support hormonal balance.
Why Hormone Sensitivity — Not Hormone Levels — Causes PMS and PMDD
Normal hormone levels don’t mean no symptoms. PMS and PMDD often stem from hormone sensitivity—especially to progesterone—rather than “imbalances.” Learn what this means and what treatments can help.
The 200+ Symptoms of PMS You Might Not Know About
PMS can show up in over 200 different ways—from bloating and headaches to mood swings and fatigue. Some symptoms overlap with the diagnostic criteria for PMDD, which is often confused with bipolar disorder. Understanding your personal pattern is the first step to clarity and relief. Explore the full list of symptoms, learn what’s “normal,” and find out when to seek help.
Slynd®: The New Generation Progesterone-Only Pill Now Available in the UK
Slynd® (drospirenone 4 mg) is reshaping progesterone-only contraception in the UK: predictable dosing, improved tolerability, and effective protection for adults and adolescents
How PMS and PMDD Are Diagnosed
Wondering whether your symptoms are PMS or PMDD? Diagnosis relies on tracking cycles, using tools like the PSST and Mortola Calendar, and ruling out other causes. Here’s how doctors make the distinction and why symptom records are essential.
How Common Are PMS and PMDD?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects nearly half of women worldwide, while the more severe Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is less common but often underdiagnosed. This blog explores how common PMS and PMDD really are, why prevalence rates vary, and the challenges researchers face in understanding these conditions.
PMS vs PMDD: Understanding the Key Differences
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are often confused — but they’re not the same. PMS is common and can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms, while PMDD is a severe, often disabling condition that affects mood, work, and relationships. In this post, we’ll explain the key differences, how doctors diagnose PMS and PMDD, and what treatments are available.
Zoely & PMDD: Could This Pill Help Ease Your Symptoms?
Discover how Zoely — a contraceptive pill containing nomegestrol acetate and bioidentical estradiol — may help ease PMDD symptoms. Learn the science, benefits, and how it compares with other pills, so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.