Question:
Any of you ladies develop PMDD (Premenstual Dysphoric Disorder) post-op?

Ever since I had my surgery (distal rny) 8 1/2 months ago, and lost alot of weight (114lbs. so far) and started getting regular periods (without the assistance of Provera - SHOCK!), I have been getting emotional & physical problems during the 2 weeks before my period, which at first I dismissed as plain PMS. But I heard of this Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder which is like PMS but ALOT worse. I mean, I become almost psychotic! Keep me away from the kitchen knives! I actually pray for my period to hurry up & come so I can be free of the insanity. I never thought I'd ever hear myself praying for my period! lol! I saw my GP on Mon. and told him exactly how evil I become during the 2 weeks before my period & he prescribed me Xanax & said to take as needed. He didn't tell me whether I have PMDD or not, but I think I do because I have the classic symptoms. I of course will consult my OB/Gyn for the final word. Anyone else develop this after surgery & weight loss? Any explanation for WHY this is happening? What medication were you prescribed? Will it ever go away, or do I have this for life, well until menopause? I welcome any answers from ladies who are suffering PMDD from before surgery as well.    — lalasmommy (posted on February 6, 2002)

February 6, 2002
I've always had bad PMS, but really felt that after my surgery and fast weight loss, it was more PMDD. I discussed it with my doctor, who suggested BC pills, or Prozac. There's a drug called Saraphem (sp) that is for PMDD, and it's basically a form of Prozac. Prozac hasn't helped me in the past, so we tried Celexa. (I've also suffered from depression) I currently take 20mg daily for depression, but double up about 5-7 days before my cycle and the PMDD's been much better - Just ask my hubby and kids! Best wishes to you.
   — T.L. S.

February 6, 2002
I never had pms or anything else except a little cramping and clumsiness right around my monthly, now I feel like the pms poster woman. I hope it's all the estrogen dumping from the fat and will go back to normal before long. I don't suffer from depression nor am I willing to take drugs, so I don't know what to tell you other than you're not alone. Good Luck.
   — Becky K.

February 6, 2002
I too have problems the two weeks before my period, though I don't think it's associated with my surgery. This just got much worse in the past two years. I take Celexa from days 15 through menses, and it has really helped me. Takes the edge off, and makes me much easier to live with!
   — Susan S.

June 24, 2003
I have never heard of PMDD until now. I too suffer from the worst form of pms, I have ever felt, or seen. I am a totally different person durring that time. I am very concerned about it, because I am causing problems at home. I have been crying at work and don't know why. Thank you for posting your concerns, I will go to my doctor to see why I am experiancing this. But really...will I see a differnence if I take zanex?
   — MAGICG9

June 25, 2003
FYI: Sarafem is Prozac - they just dressed it up in a different package and market to women with PMDD. If cost is a concern and Prozac (or it's generic) works, ask you doc to prescribe generic Prozac to save yourself some $$$. other meds can help. Ask your doc - there is no need to suffer (or make those around you suffer!)
   — koogy