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The relationship works both ways: those with perinatal depression are also more likely to develop premenstrual disorders after pregnancy and childbirth.

"At the preconception care, patients with premenstrual disorders should be informed about the risk of perinatal depression and potential prevention strategies."

Feeling irritable, tired, depressed or experiencing carb cravings are part of premenstrual symptoms and could be linked to reduced serotonin levels.

At the same time, other people may use the pill to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder—severe irritability, depression, or anxiety in the weeks leading up to your period.

Two women told BBC News NI their premenstrual symptoms were so debilitating they wanted to die.