Direct Medical Script (focused on facts & symptoms)

• “I want to talk about the possibility of PMDD. My symptoms start in the luteal phase, about 1–2 weeks before my period, and they resolve within a few days of bleeding. This happens consistently every cycle.”

• “The symptoms are severe enough to disrupt my daily functioning — including work, relationships, and mental health.”

• “This is different from PMS. It’s cyclical, time-limited, and very intense. I’ve tracked symptoms across multiple cycles to confirm this pattern.”

• “I would like to discuss PMDD as a clinical diagnosis and explore treatment options, such as SSRIs, hormonal treatments, or other management strategies.”

Assertive Self-Advocacy Script (if you’ve been dismissed before)

• “I need you to understand that what I’m experiencing is not just ‘bad PMS.’ The severity puts my safety and daily life at risk.”

• “I know my body and my cycle. The symptoms are disabling, and I need you to take them seriously.”

• “I’m here to advocate for myself. I want my chart to reflect ‘PMDD’ so that my symptoms are documented correctly.”

• “If this isn’t your area, I’d like a referral to a gynecologist, psychiatrist, or another provider who has experience with PMDD.”

Collaborative Script (for a doctor who may be supportive)

• “I’ve been researching PMDD and I’d like to work with you on managing it.”

• “Here are the symptoms I’ve tracked by cycle: [insert highlights like mood swings, suicidal thoughts, physical pain]. Can we review these together?”

• “What are your thoughts on treatment options like SSRIs, birth control, or lifestyle/nutritional approaches?”

• “I’d really value ongoing support and check-ins while I figure out what works best.”

Bonus Tips for Advocacy

• Bring a symptom tracker (apps like Me v PMDD, or a paper log).

• Use medical language: “luteal phase,” “cyclical,” “functional impairment.”

• Stay focused: don’t downplay your symptoms with “it’s probably nothing.”

• Ask for documentation: “Can you please note in my chart that we discussed PMDD today?”