Menstrual Health in Wales: Improving Understanding and Care for PMS and PMDD

Menstrual health is a priority within the Women’s Health Plan for Wales, recognising its impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, education, employment, and quality of life. Common conditions include heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and premenstrual conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

While most people who menstruate experience mild premenstrual changes, a smaller proportion experience severe PMS or PMDD, which can be debilitating. PMDD involves intense mood changes, anxiety, low mood, irritability, and physical symptoms that recur each cycle and can significantly disrupt daily life, relationships, and the ability to work or study.

Public awareness of PMDD has increased in recent years, with several public figures speaking openly about their experiences, including media personality Vicky Pattison, comedian Bella Humphries, MAFS participant Kristina Goodsell, and Cardiff-based social media and wellness influencer Jessie Hallett. Despite this, many people still experience delays in diagnosis, inconsistent care, and limited access to appropriate support.

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is undertaking a public engagement survey to better understand experiences of PMS and PMDD locally. The survey will explore how symptoms affect daily life, interactions with healthcare services, and where improvements in care pathways are needed.

Findings will inform a wider PMS/PMDD Discovery Project, helping to shape more evidence-based, equitable menstrual health services grounded in lived experience.

Complete the survey here: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Engagement Survey

Closing Date 12th January 2026