Exploring premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in the work context: a qualitative study.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Women's Health
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood disorder affecting women during the premenstrual phase.
• The impact of PMDD on the workplace, including productivity and employee retention, is not fully understood.
• Existing organizational support for employees with PMDD is often inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of women with PMDD in the workplace.
• To identify specific challenges faced by women with PMDD at work.
• To determine potential organizational interventions to support employees with PMDD.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing 15 semi-structured interviews.
• Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data.
• Focus on understanding women's subjective experiences of PMDD symptoms and their workplace consequences.

Main Results:

• Common premenstrual symptoms at work include difficulty concentrating, self-doubt, paranoia, fatigue, tearfulness, heightened sensitivity, outbursts, and social interaction difficulties.
• These symptoms lead to presenteeism and absenteeism.
• Post-episode, women experience guilt and engage in over-compensatory behaviors like working longer hours.

Conclusions:

• PMDD significantly affects women's work performance and well-being, leading to presenteeism, absenteeism, and potential career derailment.
• Women with PMDD often leave the workforce due to unaddressed symptoms and lack of organizational support.
• Increased organizational awareness and tailored support mechanisms are crucial for retaining female employees with PMDD.