We can totally understand the concerns that parents have about passing on the condition. While PMS/PMDD may be heritable to some degree, the influence of genetics on premenstrual symptoms is complex.

Twin studies show that there may be some genetic influence on premenstrual symptoms. For instance, identical (monozygotic) twins have more overlap of PMS symptoms than fraternal (dizygotic) twins. Other studies suggest that it is a combination of genetic factors and environmental factors that give rise to premenstrual symptoms.

Awareness of PMDD, provider training, and PMDD treatment options will only improve over time, so your child will be in a better position even if they do develop PMDD.

Dr. Liisa Hantsoo, IAPMD Clinical Advisory Board