premenstrual dysphoric disorder
a mood disorder in women that begins in the week prior to the onset of menstruation and subsides within the first few days of menstruation. Women experience mood swings, including markedly depressed mood, anxiety, feelings of helplessness, and decreased interest in activities. In contrast to premenstrual syndrome, the symptoms must be severe enough to impair functioning in social activities, work, and relationships. Only a small percentage of women with premenstrual syndrome meet criteria for this disorder. Also called late luteal phase dysphoric disorder.