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Is there a link between PMDD and Autism? Or can there be premenstrual exacerbation of Autism? How is it managed?
Is there a link between PMDD and Autism? Or can there be premenstrual exacerbation of Autism? How is it managed?

Keywords: Autistic. Autism. Neurodivergence.

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Written by IAPMD
Updated over a week ago

While the nature of autism makes it unlikely to be something that shows up as a PMDD symptom or is exacerbated directly, people with autism can of course have PMDD and those could perhaps include increased irritability and sensitivity to environmental factors like sounds.

Those with autism can also have other conditions that are prone to premenstrual exacerbation (e.g., mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, etc).

If these problems are premenstrually exacerbated, it could increase behaviors in the premenstrual phase like stimming, outbursts, sensitivity to environmental factors, or challenges communicating with neurotypical people. This could be managed with usual treatments for PMDD/PME, including SSRIs, hormonal treatments, and/or surgery, depending on the severity and patient needs/wants.

  • Updated June 2022

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