BOSTON, MA -- April 2023 marks the second annual Premenstrual Disorders (PMD) Awareness Month, an internationally celebrated event established by the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD) to raise awareness and build advocacy for premenstrual disorders. The 2023 theme, ‘Spark Change,’ encourages members of the premenstrual disorders community to speak out about their lived experiences and take action to make a difference.

Premenstrual Disorders (PMDs) are complex conditions at the intersection of mental and menstrual health (women’s health). The core premenstrual disorders, which include Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME) of underlying conditions, are linked to hypersensitivity to normal hormone changes across the menstrual cycle. They can cause or contribute to significant emotional and physical symptoms in the weeks leading up to and even during a woman/AFAB individual’s period.

“Premenstrual disorders are still an emerging topic in women's mental health research and the mainstream health dialogue,” said Sandi MacDonald, co-founder and executive director of IAPMD. “Increasing visibility and representation is essential to spark change for individuals in need and the healthcare system at large.”

Approximately 1 in 20 women/AFAB individuals have PMDD - more than 60 million worldwide - and likely more experience PME, yet many struggle to receive a diagnosis or find treatment because of a lack of awareness. Studies also show that an estimated 34% of sufferers attempt suicide in their lifetimes, demanding an even greater need for more awareness and support for people with premenstrual disorders.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Awareness Month started in 2013, but in 2022 the celebration expanded to include all core premenstrual disorders. Through increased research and a greater understanding of the complex connection between hormones and mental health, advocates realized that many more individuals experienced hormone sensitivity symptoms beyond the diagnosis of PMDD, thus the celebration evolved to honor all.

Events and activities throughout PMD Awareness Month 2023 include:

• Light-ups of world landmarks in PMD’s signature teal color on April 15

• PMD Remembrance Day on April 27 to honor those who have lost their lives to suicide due to premenstrual disorders

• Educational webinars for patients and professionals

• Daily awareness challenges on Instagram

• Teal Tuesdays celebrated weekly to build community and raise funds for PMD support

For comment, contact Sandi MacDonald, IAPMD Co-founder & Executive Director at media@iapmd.org. We have patients, researchers, and family members of patients available and eager to share their experience and expertise.