Content note: This episode contains an open discussion of suicidal ideation as a symptom of PMDD. If you're struggling,
- the Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123
- visit
evelynhealth.com for guidance and advice
- join the Evelyn Whatsapp Community for PMDD-specific community support:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/L40QNzo4Ew94MaTlnraLBW
What does it really look like to live with PMDD, autism, and ADHD - all at once? Ellisha sits down with PMDD advocate and content creator Lily Rose Winter for one of the most honest conversations the Hormonal Hotline has had yet.
Lily shares her decade-long misdiagnosis journey, the science behind why neurodivergent women are more likely to experience severe PMDD, what suicidal ideation as a monthly symptom actually feels like, and why she chose to speak publicly about how a pregnancy changed the course of her condition. Raw, relatable, and genuinely important.
What we cover
- What PMDD is - and why "really bad PMS" doesn't cut it as a description
- The research linking PMDD with ADHD and autism, and why oestrogen and dopamine drops hit harder for neurodivergent women
- Lily's misdiagnosis journey: depression, bipolar, a personality disorder - and eventually autism and ADHD
- Suicidal ideation as a monthly PMDD symptom, and how education changes your relationship with those thoughts
- How PMDD affects relationships and careers - and what Lily actually recommends if you want to break up with your partner every single month
- Treatment, trial and error, and what's worked (SSRIs, lifestyle changes, going sober)
- How to advocate for yourself at a GP appointment when you're not being taken seriously
- How a pregnancy changed Lily's PMDD - and why she decided to stop staying quiet about it
- The Monthlies: the free online PMDD support group Lily co-hosts with the PMDD Project
Our sponsor: Evelyn Health
Evelyn Health is dedicated to helping those struggling with PMS and PMDD through expert-led, science-backed supplements and functional foods. Having used them for over a year to manage my own hormonal health, I'm so proud to have them as a partner.
Get 20% off your first order with code HOTLINE20 at evelynhealth.com
Connect with Lily Rose Winter
Timestamps
00:09:26 — The link between PMDD, ADHD, and autism
00:14:23 — PMDD and relationships: isolation, toxicity, and red flags
00:20:59 — Suicidal ideation as a monthly symptom
00:29:16 — Treatment options and what's actually helped
00:57:58 — How a pregnancy changed Lily's PMDD
This podcast explores research and lived experience around women's health and chronic conditions. Our discussions aim to reflect current evidence while acknowledging that understanding in this field continues to evolve. The content is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners experiencing significant or distressing symptoms should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
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Edited and produced by @the32collective the32collective.co
What is The Hormonal Hotline?
Ever feel like your health struggles are "all in your head"? It’s time to change the narrative.
Welcome to the supportive, straight talking "girls group chat" you’ve been waiting for. Hosted by Ellisha - your resident big sister, fellow struggler, and open book - this podcast is a safe space for young women navigating the complexities of health issues like PMDD, ADHD, and everything in between.
We know what it’s like to be chronically online but feel completely unheard. Whether you’re paralyzed by information overload, tired of doctors dismissing your pain, or fearing your symptoms are impacting your relationships and career, we’re here to cut through the noise.
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The Hormone Hotline: We dive into your anonymous listener dilemmas from across the web to provide actionable advice and support.
Self-Advocacy Tools: We move from feeling silenced to feeling empowered, equipping you with the confidence to advocate for your physical and mental health.
Stop the chronic comparison and start healing. It’s time to move from overwhelmed to equipped.
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