Increase funding for PMDD, PME and menopause screening in mental health services

Increase funding to help ensure menstrual and menopausal health is included in mental health assessments, including crisis, talking therapies, specialist care & Mental Health Act assessments

We believe services should have adequate funding to track symptoms and create clear treatment pathways for PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) & menopause.

PMDD affects 1 in 20 women & people who menstruate, with some sources citing that almost a third attempt suicide. PMDD, PME (Premenstrual Exacerbation) & menopause can mimic psychiatric illness, leading to misdiagnosis, unsafe treatment, & preventable harm. There is no dedicated mental health pathway for PMDD. Neurodivergent women are disproportionately affected. Menopause will impact nearly all women. We think that including menstrual and menopausal health in assessments could reduce suicide risk, improve diagnosis, & ensure safer, more effective care.

The government is committed to prioritising women’s health, including their mental health and wellbeing. Mental health assessments seek to understand a person’s symptoms in the wider context of their life and overall health, and where relevant this may include exploration of the impact of menopause or menstrual disorders. It is not necessary to increase funding to include menstrual and menopausal health in mental health assessments as they already are included as appropriate.

This government recognises that women suffering with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) have been failed for far too long, and we acknowledge the impact it has on women’s lives, relationships and participation in education and the workforce. While menopause is a natural stage of a woman’s life course, symptoms are common and can significantly impact on women’s mental health.

Women are supported to explore the range of available treatment pathways for PMDD and menopause through consultation with their general practitioner (GP). Menopause treatment options, including Hormone Replacement Therapy, can safely and effectively be used to treat common symptoms, including mood problems and anxiety. Where more support is needed, GPs can refer patients to local gynaecology services.

To ensure that healthcare providers can provide the most effective support for conditions such as PMDD and menopause, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published updated guidelines on menopause in November 2024 and recommended more treatment choices for symptoms. PMDD is also listed in NICE’s library of A-Z Health Topics, summarising the current evidence and advice on best practice. Anyone can propose a topic for consideration through the prioritisation process by using the topic suggestion page on NICE’s website at