For parents and caregivers
Periods and menstrual cycles
PMS and PMDD.
Some people have physical or emotional symptoms before their period. It is important to investigate how severe the symptoms are and whether they follow a pattern.
Understanding the situation
PMS can cause irritability, tender breasts and changes in energy before menstruation. PMDD is a more serious condition involving significant psychological symptoms that interfere with everyday life.
With PMDD, symptoms occur in the part of the cycle before menstruation and ease after bleeding starts. Recording symptoms over at least two cycles can help the doctor assess this. Other mental health conditions may also worsen before a period.
Turning knowledge into action
What you can do
- Together with your child, record mood, sleep, daily functioning and bleeding days if they wish.
- Adjust expectations and agree what might help on difficult days.
- Seek help for severe symptoms while you investigate the pattern.
Find a way to start
One way to begin
“I notice that some days are particularly difficult. Shall we see if there is a pattern and get help with what you are experiencing?”
Use your own words and give your child time to respond. A short conversation can be a good beginning.
More help with the conversationFurther support
When should you seek help?
Your GP can assess symptoms and treatment options. Suicidal thoughts or severe deterioration in daily functioning require immediate help. Call 113 if there is immediate suicide risk, and stay with your child.
See who you can contactContinue learning
Other useful topics
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked on 1 October 2026. The conversation examples are suggestions from Tidlignok.
- Helsenorge: PMDD (Norwegian)
- Sex og samfunn, eMetodebok: PMS og PMDD (Norwegian)
- Helsenorge: Er du bekymret for noen? (Norwegian)
This content provides general information. Healthcare professionals can assess your child's symptoms, circumstances and treatment needs.