Hello everyone.
This is only my 2nd post, but within the same (horrendous) week. I've been doing a lot of reading and just wanted to get other experiences and suggestions.
I am 44. I've had an endometrial resection and haven't had a period for 6 years. I have fibroids (5cm) and a "bulky" uterus and previously suffered VERY heavy painful and clotty periods.
I went to see the GP about 2 years ago as I was having cyclical symptoms - breast pain/swelling, brain fog, overwhelming phases of crying (for hours, lasting days), increased anxiety, fatigue period pains etc. I was given BC and took it for about 9 months - no dramatic changes.
Feb 2025, I went back again - they said it could be perimenopause so I started with conti hrt patches. But I was still having the psychological issues - crying, fatigue, headaches, pressure in my head, brain fog and just wanting to sleep. In October 2025, I had one of the worst emotional episodes - called the doctor in hysterics (I find it really scary) and she naturally prescribed antidepressants (citalopram). A few days later I collected them but had started to feel better so I didn't take them. I don't think I am depressed. When I'm feeling good I really do feel good - productive, happy and silly etc. But these symptoms are definitely cyclical.
I've noticed my symptoms are worse every other month (Oct, Dec, Feb and April). This week has been really tough. I cancelled plans and just couldn't face going out for a few days and then yesterday I felt like I started to turn a corner.
Does this sound like PMDD? I don't have suicidal thoughts - but the emotions and anxiety make me feel completely out of control, like my head will burst! And also, flu-like in bad episodes.
I've been taking a daily antihistamine for about 6 weeks which I have found has helped with my baseline, and stopped my daily coughing. I've recently read about how this can help with PMDD. Any experiences?
I've also read about progesterone intolerance - so I've switched to taking my progesterone 100mg pill vaginally for the last 2 nights (I am getting desperate). I take 2-3 pumps of estrogel daily.
I tried the mini pill years ago and it really didn't suit me - swollen breasts.
So, I'm thinking perhaps progesterone intolerance is playing a part?
I've also read about people taking Pepcid and antihistamines to help with PMDD. I am in the UK - not sure what the equivalent would be?
Thank you for reading this far!
I've not been formally been diagnosed with PMDD and this could well be how hellish perimenopause can be - but it's definitely more intense than the PMS I used to get in my teens and twenties.
I am seeing a private gynaecologist next week but I want to go armed with ideas, questions.
I think lived experience is so much more valid.
Thank you thank you thank you xxx