PMDD is a hormone-related condition that causes severe emotional and physical symptoms in the days leading up to a woman’s period. Unlike PMS, PMDD symptoms are intense enough to interfere with work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Severe mood swings or irritability
Anxiety or depression leading up to menstruation
Intense fatigue or low energy
Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
Food cravings or appetite changes
Physical symptoms such as bloating, cramps, or breast tenderness
Because these symptoms may overlap with other health concerns, we carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether hormones may be a contributing factor.
PMDD symptoms are closely tied to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone changes are believed to influence brain chemistry, which can intensify mood and physical symptoms.
At InnerMD, we assess whether personalized hormone care — such as menopause hormone therapy, personalized hormone care, or other treatment strategies — may help manage symptoms as part of a broader, individualized plan.
We follow a patient-centered process to support women experiencing PMDD:
Intake Form – Complete our secure online form to share your symptoms and health history.
Virtual Consultation – Meet with Dr. Johnston to review your experience and discuss treatment options.
Lab Testing (If Needed) – Ordered when results may provide additional insight into hormone levels.
Personalized Treatment Plan – Tailored care that may include hormone therapy or other evidence-based recommendations.
Ongoing Follow-Up – Regular reassessment every 3–6 months, with annual visits once stable.
Meet Dr. Jennifer Johnston
Dr. Jennifer Johnston is a practicing family physician from the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia.
She completed her medical training at Dalhousie University and later became board certified in Lifestyle Medicine by the ACLM, she specializes in bioidentical hormone therapy for men and women.
By using the latest research, she aims to harness the body’s natural ability to heal. She is dedicated to giving patients the tools and treatments needed to restore and repair the body for optimal health and vitality.
We specialize in hormone-related care, including conditions that affect women’s quality of life like PMDD.
Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and goals.
From Halifax & across Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador and Prince Edward Island, our care is available through secure telehealth visits.
We recognize the seriousness of PMDD and provide judgment-free, personalized care.
No matter where you are, you can receive hormone therapy for PMDD through secure, virtual consultations, including Halifax, Cape Breton, Annapolis Valley, Digby, Truro, and more across Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador and Prince Edward Island
No. While both are related to the menstrual cycle, PMDD is much more severe and can significantly interfere with daily life.
In some cases, hormone therapy may be considered as part of treatment. Decisions are always individualized based on symptoms and medical history.
Diagnosis is usually based on a detailed review of symptoms and timing in relation to the menstrual cycle. Lab testing may sometimes be used to provide additional insight.
We focus on hormone-related care. If additional counseling or psychotherapy is needed, we may recommend working with other providers alongside your plan.
Yes. We provide virtual care across Nova Scotia, including Cape Breton, the Annapolis Valley, Digby, and Truro, and across Atlantic Canada, including New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador and Prince Edward Island
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