The PMDD Phenomenon : Breakthrough Treatments for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Extreme Premenstrual Syndrome [Paperback]

Diana L. Dell (Author), Carol Svec (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 25, 2002

The first book to clearly explain this new disorder and offer treatment options

Afflicting an estimated 3 million women in the United States, PMDD is an extreme form of PMS in which the physical and psychological symptoms are often so severe that they strain social, familial, and work relationships to the breaking point. Despite the rapidly growing body of scientific research into its causes and cures, PMDD continues to be a bone of contention among medical professionals, and many women who suffer from it are still told that it's all in their heads. The first consumer book written on this condition and authored by a nationally respected expert on the treatment of this condition, The PMDD Phenomenon:

• Helps readers determine whether they have PMDD
• Explains the full spectrum of prescription and nonprescription drug therapies
• Covers major alternative treatments
• Features inspiring and informative case studies of women who have battled PMDD

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

"An important book for anyone who wants to understand the experience of premenstrual disorders. Grounded in scientific data, up-to-date, and free of technical jargon."
--Ellen W. Freeman, Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center

"A balanced and comprehensive review of the issues involved in the diagnosis of PMDD, evidence-based prescription treatment regimens, lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, and alternative treatments."
--Teri Pearlstein, M.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown Medical School, and Director, Women's Behavioral Health Program, Women and Infants Hospital

"At last, an authoritative and readable book by experts on PMDD that will inform and empower women to take charge of their premenstrual symptoms."
--Donna E. Stewart, M.D., FRCPC, Professor and Chair of Women's Health, University Health Network, University of Toronto.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and extreme premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are debilitating conditions that affect millions of women worldwide. If you suffer from PMDD or PMS you know that the intense symptoms of depression, anxiety, and irritability in the days before your period can wreak havoc on your personal relationships and self-esteem.

In The PMDD Phenomenon, Diana Dell. M.D., who specializes in the treatment of PMDD and PMS and in reproductive psychiatry, gives authoritative information on the latest treatments available, including:

• The real scoop on prescription and over-the-counter medications
• The value of exercise and what kinds work best
• Which nutrition supplements and alternative therapies really work
• Medical treatments to try when all else fails

About the Author

Diana L. Dell, M.D., FACOG, is a board-certified in both ob-gyn and psychiatry. She is an assistant professor in both the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Duke University Medical Center. She is past president of the American Medical Women's Association.

Carol Svec is a researcher and award-winning health writer.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill; 1 edition (September 25, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0071400753
• ISBN-13: 978-0071400756
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #114,707 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent book!, February 27, 2006

By 

Anthea "http://pmdd.proboards20.com" (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The PMDD Phenomenon : Breakthrough Treatments for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Extreme Premenstrual Syndrome (Paperback)

I have been counseling women and their spouses/partners for over 5 years about all aspects of PMS and PMDD, more especially how to effectively treat PMS and PMDD using specific nutrition and other life-style changes. I have been symptom free of my own severe PMDD for over 4 years now following these methods. I found this book to be an honest, well researched and insightful tool in helping women (and their spouses/partners) to understand this disorder from the inside out. I highly recommend it!

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you!, September 1, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: The PMDD Phenomenon : Breakthrough Treatments for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Extreme Premenstrual Syndrome (Paperback)

Finally someone who understands! Having being diagnosed as suffering PMDD only recently this book was an absolute God send. Now I finally understand what it is that's gripping me each month and I am not - as I feared losing my mind. For any woman who suffers PMS or worse please do yourself a favour and get this book, make your family read it, your friends, your boss... it's great to know we are not alone!

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply the best!!!, October 24, 2002

By 

Teresa Lawrence (Massachusetts) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The PMDD Phenomenon : Breakthrough Treatments for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Extreme Premenstrual Syndrome (Paperback)

This book is wonderful! It is easy to read, easy to understand, and for once I feel like I really understand what works, what doesn't work, and why. I highly recommend this book for every woman who has PMS, PMDD, or is even just a little cranky once a month. This puts it all into perspective, and offers all kinds of solutions. Top-notch! Plus, I trust the information because it comes from a woman doctor who is both a psychiatrist AND an OB/GYN.