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
Ever been told your bloods are “normal” while you feel like a completely different person every month? Ellisha sits down with functional wellness practitioner and PMDD advocate Zoe Jane Hindle for a raw, detailed conversation about what's really going on in the body when PMDD takes hold - and why “normal” results don't mean nothing is wrong.
Zoe has lived through severe PMDD herself, trained at the College of Functional Wellness, and now works with women one-to-one to get to the root of their symptoms. She and Ellisha get honest about rage, isolation, relationship breakdowns, the years it took to get a diagnosis, and the unexpected culprits - from collagen supplements to copper coils - that can quietly make symptoms worse. This one's a masterclass in body literacy, and a reminder that there is genuinely a way out the other side.
What we cover
What PMDD actually is, and why it shows up as feeling like two completely different people across the month
The rage, isolation and withdrawal that so many women with PMDD experience — and why checking in on them matters
How PMDD shows up in relationships, and why it doesn't mean the relationship itself is wrong
Zoe's own diagnosis journey, including the years spent not knowing what ovulation even was
Why a “normal” blood test doesn't rule out PMDD — it's a hormone sensitivity, not a hormone imbalance
The role of histamine, collagen, copper coils and gut health in flaring symptoms
Functional and DUTCH testing, and what they can reveal that a single blood test can't
Trauma, nervous system regulation and why “doing the work” matters alongside nutrition
Zoe's honest take on contraception, and listener dilemmas on choosing what's right for your body
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.
Connect with Zoe Jane Hindle
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome back and catching up with Zoe
05:00 – What is PMDD, really?
16:00 – Zoe's own diagnosis story
38:00 – Why normal bloods don't mean nothing's wrong
50:00 – Zoe's number one advice for anyone newly diagnosed
1:05:00 – Quickfire questions and listener dilemmas
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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Produced by @the32collective_
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.
What to expect each week:
Raw & Relatable Chat: No inaccessible celebrities here - just real stories from "normal" women going through the exact same thing.
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.
Hit follow and join the chat. You aren't falling behind, and you certainly aren't alone.